News Release
5/17/2017
Aurora, ON –York Region District School Board is encouraging teachers to deepen students’ understandings of First Nation, Métis and Inuit histories and perspectives related to Canada 150.
A new Board resource prompts teachers to guide students through an exploration of Indigenous histories and viewpoints as the country celebrates its 150th anniversary. Canada 150 Truths: First Nation, Métis and Inuit Relations with Canada also connects historical and contemporary issues including treaties, residential schools, water quality on reserves, and truth and reconciliation.
“Canada 150 is an opportunity to encourage all students to explore the history of Canada’s First Peoples, and to understand that there were people and systems in place here long before Canada became a country,” said Pamala Agawa, First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Curriculum Coordinator. “Engaging all students in this type of learning will also deepen their understanding of the contemporary issues Indigenous populations face.”
The Canada 150 Truths: First Nation, Métis and Inuit Relations with Canada resource is part of the Board’s ongoing commitment to raise awareness about First Nation, Métis and Inuit perspectives, histories and cultures. This work includes supporting educators in integrating Indigenous content in different aspects of the curriculum including English, Science and Civics. In addition, more than 350 staff members have participated in cultural competency training this year through partnerships with Enaahtig Healing Lodge, Brantford Woodland Cultural Centre and Georgina Island First Nation.
York Region District School Board is the third largest school district in Ontario with over 123,000 students in 176 elementary schools and 32 secondary schools. York Region students consistently perform above average in provincial testing and the Board is one of the top achievers in Ontario. For more information about the York Region District School Board, please visit the Board website and follow @YRDSBon Twitter.
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