Irwin Memorial Public School (IMPS) Grade 7 student, Niah, was recently recognized for her contributions to the school’s 2025-2026 Orange Shirt Day*.

Last year Niah shared her artwork with the school’s Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Maxwell, and spoke about a current project she was working on with her father, learning how to draw Ojibway art. Maxwell was impressed by Niah’s artwork and suggested she design a t-shirt for this year’s Orange Shirt Day. With the support from the school principal, Erin Hills, Niah’s family, and the Trillium Lakelands District School Board Indigenous Student Success Team, Niah developed four preliminary designs featuring a bird, turtle, snake, and fish.

“The turtle design depicted Turtle Island, with trees growing on its back, and included the words “Every Child Matters” on the reverse of the shirt,” explained Maxwell. “The bird design carried personal significance, as it reflected Niah’s long-standing interest in drawing birds — a passion she often pursued during her time in my Kindergarten class.”

Once the designs were finalized, the school was connected with Nish Tees who printed all four designs on orange t-shirts and made them available to purchase by the school community. In total, 129 t-shirts were sold and all of the proceeds have been directed to purchase books by Indigenous authors for the IMPS library.

“The Irwin community is deeply grateful for the partnerships that made this project possible, for the many individuals who supported Niah and proudly wore her design, and for the way her artwork has helped share the message of Orange Shirt Day,” said Maxwell. “Together, through creativity and collaboration, we continue to walk the path of reconciliation.”

*Orange Shirt Day honours the story of six-year-old Phyllis (Jack) Webstad’s first day at residential school when her new orange shirt, bought by her grandmother, was taken from her.

The post Irwin Memorial Public School Student Recognized For Orange Shirt Day T-Shirt Design appeared first on Muskoka411.

Founded in 2010 by artist and advocate Shania Twain, Shania Kids Can provides children, youth and their families with services and support that promote positive change in times of crises and economic hardship. SKC partners with elementary schools to provide a safe place within the school where students can go for help. The goal in the SKC Clubhouse is to support students by offering a program that increases academic achievement, improves emotional development, and provides nutritional
support.

“The SKC Clubhouse in Dwight is our longest running program, to see this kind of support from the community is amazing”, said Twain. “This donation will provide so much for the kids at Irwin, I hope that with the help of the community we can meet and surpass the challenge of doubling the $4,500.00”, said Shania.

Lynn DeCaro, Executive Director of the Muskoka Community Foundation noted “it is important to recognize that young people play a vital role in creating a healthy and vibrant Muskoka and we are honoured to work with our special donor to support the work of the Shania Kids Clubhouse at Irwin Memorial Public School”.

To learn more about Shania Kids Can visit Shania Kids Can. To double your impact please consider supporting the Shania Kids Can Club House at Irwin Memorial Public School in Dwight by visiting Canada Donate Page | Shania Kids Can

The post Matching Gifts In Support Of Shania Kids Can Clubhouse At Irwin Memorial Public School appeared first on Muskoka411.

The whole school community was invited to a magical evening of entertainment that included a craft show from the Grade 7/8 class, a bake sale, and an outdoor concert with musical performances from various grades levels.

“I am proud to be a staff member at this school,” said IMPS Special Education resource and primary Physical Education teacher, Peter Yungblut. “We always strive for ways to think outside the box and include everyone.”

“School gatherings are really about celebrating our community,” explained IMPS principal, Ian Patterson. “Hosting this outdoor event ensured that the widest range of family and community members could participate. Our students, along with their parents and school staff have worked so hard this year, so this seemed like a great way to acknowledge that. Tall pines, fresh snow, baked goods, hot chocolate, and festive performances, what more could you ask for?”

Check out the video for a highlight of the night.

The post Irwin Memorial Public School Hosts First-Ever Outdoor Family Holiday Festival appeared first on Muskoka411.