The sənsisyustən House of Learning in Westbank First Nation is one of 20 schools across Canada splitting $400,000 in improved technology as part of the annual Superpower Your School contest which supports school communities that are leaders in environmental initiatives.

Wes Malo, sənsisyustən principal, explained that he isn't sure when the technology will become available, estimating they'll be able to put the gear to use this fall, but has an idea of how it will benefit sənsisyustən.

"We will be using the technology not only for delving into science and technology but we'll also be using that in a way that reflects how Okanagan people are working to save the land and to do their part in working with it," Malo said.

Photo Credit: sənsisyustən House of Learning

"We will document language and culture, we will document the teachings of the elders in regard to ecology and the land and we'll also make sure that the kids get a chance to do a repository of their own materials."

Malo said that sənsisyustən is currently operating via online classes, similar to other schools in the region.

This year the contest, headed by Staples Canada, doubled their usual $200,000 in response to COVID-19, which has caused schools and universities to shift to online teaching methods because of physical distancing measures. Three other schools in BC will also receive $20,000 in technology from the contest. 

"The driving force behind this contest has always been getting technology to students to support their educational growth. In today's environment, this is more important than ever," said David Boone, Staples chief executive officer in a statement.