This year, National Indigenous History Month arrives at a moment of meaningful progress for the Lambton Kent District School Board. Across our system, students, staff, and communities have witnessed a year defined not only by learning, but by action—real steps toward honouring Indigenous knowledge, strengthening relationships, and supporting language revitalization.

And at the heart of this year’s momentum is a milestone we are proud to celebrate: the launch of the LKDSB Indigenous Languages App, created in partnership with Knowledge Keepers, language speakers, and local First Nations.

Language carries identity, memory, and worldview. When a language is spoken, a culture lives.

This year, LKDSB took a significant step forward by introducing a digital learning tool that brings Anishinaabemowin and Lenape languages directly into the hands of students, families, and educators. The Indigenous Languages App is more than a resource—it is a commitment to ensuring that future generations can learn, hear, and speak the languages of the lands we live and learn on.

Its creation reflects the leadership and generosity of Aamjiwnaang, Delaware Nation, Kettle & Stony Point, and Walpole Island First Nations, whose voices shaped every word, phrase, and teaching included.

Throughout the year, LKDSB students engaged with Indigenous history not as a chapter in a textbook, but as a living, evolving story. This included:

Community-led teachings that brought Elders and Knowledge Keepers into classrooms

Land-based learning that connected students to local histories and responsibilities

Arts, storytelling, and digital media projects that celebrated Indigenous creativity

School-wide events that honoured resilience, identity, and cultural pride

These experiences helped students understand that Indigenous history is not confined to the past—it is present, powerful, and deeply woven into the fabric of our communities.

National Indigenous History Month is a time to honour the strength, leadership, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. But for LKDSB, June is also a reminder of the work happening every day across our schools:

• Educators embedding Indigenous perspectives into curriculum

• Students learning to speak greetings, names, and teachings in Indigenous languages

• Classrooms exploring stories written by Indigenous authors

• Schools building relationships with local First Nations that guide learning with authenticity and respect

This is not symbolic work. It is systemic work.

As we observe National Indigenous History Month, LKDSB celebrates the achievements of this year while recognizing the responsibility that continues. The launch of the Indigenous Languages App is a beginning—not an endpoint. It represents the kind of partnership, innovation, and shared leadership that will guide our path forward.

We extend our gratitude to the First Nations communities who continue to teach, support, and collaborate with us. Their guidance ensures that our students learn with accuracy, respect, and connection.

This June, we honour Indigenous history. Every month after, we commit to carrying that learning into action.