[Reporter: Ariel Fournier] This is one of Isabella's classrooms for the year.
I've already learned how to scrape a
hide which was a lot of work.
[Reporter] Instead of going back to school she's
studying online
while also learning land-based skills.
This time is a lesson in hide scraping from her auntie.
Wow that's a big moose.
And then you're like OK well let's stretch it out.
[Reporter] This project isn't just a workout.
She's learning about biology, chemistry and traditional art.
Her mom's also grateful to have Isabella out of a crowded classroom.
We know it's really, really important to pay attention to what experts are saying.
To pay attention to our elders stories.
And the elders are telling us that when the leaves fall
it's time for us to bunker down and to stay safe.
You need that fluff as your fire starter.
[Reporter] This elder teaches kids about medicine picking and survival skills right in the city.
It's like being a grandpa I guess.
And you're teaching your grandchildren.
Also gratitude that somehow I will share this and I retain this and then I can share it
because we are sharing society.
We all are always trying to share.
[Reporter] This fall more parents are asking about alternatives.
At this healing society they're fielding more calls than ever.
And the Assembly of First Nations national chief sees this as an opportunity.
People think that they can only learn math and science according to a textbook.
Well, not necessarily.
And so those those things should be explored
and they should be embraced as alternative teaching methods.
[Reporter] For Isabella, there's nothing better.
School system, it's good-ish.
But I like learning on the land.
[Reporter] Several First Nations schools are also expanding land-based programs
so more Indigenous kids have that
outdoor learning like Isabella.
Ariel Fournier, CBC News, Edmonton.
