The Lambton Kent District School Board celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, in recognition of the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of Indigenous peoples within schools and communities across Canada.
The LKDSB believes student success is achieved through the shared responsibility of students, staff, families, community and First Nation partners. The ongoing support of the four Indigenous communities within the LKDSB catchment area has enabled the Board and Indigenous communities to promote the success and well-being of self-identified students, as well as promote understanding and learning of Indigenous histories, traditions and perspectives amongst all students and staff.
In support of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action as they relate to education, the LKDSB continues to build capacity amongst its teachers and staff through ongoing professional development events related to Indigenous education, including the implementation of the revised social studies and history curriculum. Through inclusive programming, the LKDSB demonstrates respect and appreciation of Indigenous ways of knowing, world views and histories.
In November 2017, the LKDSB implemented the Traditional Territorial Acknowledgement for opening exercises in LKDSB schools and at Board Meetings, which was developed through a collaboration with the local First Nations and the Indigenous Liaison Committee. To further incorporate Indigenous students’ voices and perspectives in Board decisions, the LKDSB will welcome its first Indigenous Student Trustee in the 2018-2019 school year, Autumn Bressette of Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute.
“The LKDSB is committed to supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action as they relate to education,” said Director Jim Costello. “Through ongoing learning and understanding of Indigenous histories and perspectives, we continue to promote the success and well-being of Indigenous students, as well as foster a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all.”
“We appreciate the support of our Indigenous partners at Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Delaware Nation, Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, and Bkejwanong First Nation, as well as acknowledge the contributions of all First Nation, Métis and Inuit students, families and teachers in promoting Indigenous education in the LKDSB,” said Chair Elizabeth Hudie. “We also look forward to the new addition of the Indigenous Student Trustee to the Board, which will help to further reflect Indigenous students’ perspectives in LKDSB governance.”
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For additional information contact:
Elizabeth Hudie, Chair of the Board, 519-542-0939
Jim Costello, Director of Education, 519-336-1500, Ext 31297 Helen Lane, Superintendent of Education - Program: Leadership and Equity, 519-336-1500, Ext. 31263
For reference information contact:
Heather Hughes, Public Relations Officer, 519-336-1500, Ext. 31262
June 15, 2018
2017/2018:25
