Hello from Timmins, Ontario

Hi Ian! Thanks for replying - and how cool to visit the Museum of Human Rights. I was in Winnipeg last year for work but regrettably didn't get to visit the museum. How was that experience with your students? As for your question, I've actually reached out to our Education Department, as they may have greater insight - I promise to paste her response if/when she replies, but will also offer some of my thoughts. I think one of the most prominent priorities would be teacher retention (there is a high teacher turnover due to the location of these communities; particularly those that are fly-in, and other factors as well - I've heard that the pay for teachers is not competitive), incorporating Cree language (I was talking to a gentleman from Kashechewan last week about this - he had the idea that students should be immersed in the Cree language from JK - Grade 5, and learn English in Grade 6. This, he posited, would help with kids learning about who they are, boost self-esteem and self-worth, and a variety of other factors), opportunity - opportunities for these kids to have hope about their future, beyond their elementary / high school education. A local economy not only focused on extractive industries, but other initiatives and industries that don't take from their land, and those that would produce employment for the young people. More workers in mental health, health care in general in the communities....food security - food is very expensive as it needs to be flown in (although, there is an ice road as I mentioned, during a short period of time in the winter). More activities for kids. I believe all of these have an impact on learning and education, whether large or small. A new Youth Centre was just built in Attawapiskat, which is great and much needed! While I've outlined these concerns, I don't want to paint a picture of helplessness, or gloom and doom. It's important to highlight the great things happening in these communities as well, and change the conversation. Hope that helps! Melissa

Hello Melissa, I am actually from Ontario myself, but spent the majority of my life in the eastern corner of the province by Ottawa and Toronto. It's so interesting to hear about your experience in working with the Indigenous people - my school in BC has made a tremendous effort in reconnecting with learning from Indigenous culture, even traveling to Winnipeg and visiting the Museum of Human Rights. I hope that you will forgive an ignorant question: in your opinion, what would be the most prominent priorities that would enable your students to enrich their learning? I recognize that I know quite little about Canadian Indigenous culture apart from History class, and would appreciate any insight to how your experience has shaped what you believe to be the most important tools and/or philosophies for students to succeed in that part of Canada. Thanks in advance for your time and answer, Ian.