EAST: Expanding Indigenous Engagement and Cultural Awareness
This year, elementary schools invited Indigenous guest speakers, resulting in a 43% increase in participation. Additionally, renowned Indigenous author David Robertson visited secondary schools, introducing students to the new Grade 11 Indigenous Voices course. The Indigenous student group met regularly, offering leadership and cultural activities, while ten students attended the “Opportunity Knocks” conference to explore skilled trades through cultural experiences.
SOUTH: Land-Based and Experiential Learning in Indigenous Education
We continued providing land-based learning opportunities, including Indigenous art, bead-making, and canoe construction teachings. The canoe, built last year, travelled to over 25 schools, where students learned its history and significance.
WEST: Strengthening Truth & Reconciliation and Indigenous Student Support
Truth & Reconciliation bulletin boards are featured in many schools, and the second phase of the Student Census is helping us better understand Indigenous student needs. Our Indigenous Student Support Worker joined the WCDSB in the 2023-24 school year, providing culturally responsive mentorship and addressing individual and systemic barriers to support the academic and personal well-being of self-identified Indigenous students and their families. Indigenous affinity spaces were also created, with plans to expand to all secondary schools next year.
NORTH: Enhancing Indigenous Resources and Curriculum
New Indigenous resources, including book kits and kindergarten materials, were added this year. Students across all grades engaged with the Indigenous Map of Canada, and preparations for the new Grade 11 Indigenous Voices course are well underway. A digital classroom was created to support FNMI and Equity representatives, alongside continued professional development and resources provided through our FNMI website and newsletters.
