Richard Froese
South Peace News
Northland School Division has received an award from the Public School Boards Association of Alberta (PSBAA) for its work on truth and reconciliation.
Several board members and administration accepted the award June 4 at the PSBAA Spring General Assembly in Calgary, says a Northland news release June 13.
Northland was recognized for its work on advancing one or more of the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) and putting reconciliation into action in schools as described in the Division’s education plan for 2024-27.
Board chair Tanya Fayant says the Division is more than delighted to receive the award.
“This award reflects the voices and contributions of the communities Northland serves,” Fayant says.
“We are deeply honoured to be recognized for this work.”
She adds the award is shared by everyone who participates in truth and reconciliation in the Division.
“It shows what can happen when families, Elders and staff work together to support students,” Fayant says.
“The Division’s efforts are guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the vision families have for their children.”
Supt. Cal Johnson says the community’s role is vital.
“Their feedback shaped the education plan and helped guide the work happening in schools,” Johnson says.
“We are seeing real improvement in student results, including a significant increase in high school completion and greater satisfaction with the quality of education in the communities Northland serves.”
Over the past two years, Northland hosted a series of sessions to engage citizens. Comments from those sessions helped shape the Division’s priorities, outcomes and strategies. It helped make sure the voices of families, Elders and students guided the Division’s work so Northland students thrive.
Northland’s work supports TRC Calls to Action 10, 14, 62, 63 and 64, that includes steps to:
- Teach students on the land and helping them learn Indigenous languages.
- Work with Elders and add Indigenous language signs in schools.
- Create Elder and Knowledge Keepers and youth councils to help guide school decisions.
- Offer training to help staff better understand Indigenous cultures and histories.
- Host Cree language lessons and culture events with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
- Work with families and local residents to improve education.