NEWS RELEASE
DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ONTARIO NORTH EAST
*************************
Starting in September 2020, all District School Board Ontario North East (DSB1) Grade 11 students will be enrolling in English: Understanding Contemporary First Nations, MeĢtis, and Inuit Voices Grade 11, Workplace, College or University Preparation. This course is the equivalent to the Grade 11 English course for all pathways and serves as a prerequisite for any of the Grade 12 English courses, within the same pathway. Understanding contemporary First Nations, Metis and Inuit voices is the focus of this course.
“We are committed to providing all students with rich, authentic learning experiences through the lens of Indigenous history, culture and perspectives” said Board Chair, Bob Brush.
Indigenous Trustee, Howard Archibald adds “I am very proud that DSB1 is moving in this direction. With the knowledge acquired through this course and other Indigenous Studies courses, our students will enter adulthood equipped to move Canada forward in a good way.
DSB1 will support the implementation of this required course through professional learning and support from Indigenous Student Advisors and Indigenous partners.
We proudly acknowledge that our teachers have been including Indigenous content in their teaching for several years. As we implement this requirement, we are ensuring that all of our students are able to learn about Indigenous peoples’ experiences and contributions locally, nationally and globally.
In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its report and 94 Calls to Action. The education sector is a key component in the implementation of the Calls to Action. In order to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation for our students, families, and communities, DSB1 is honoured to uphold the Calls to Action through increased education, understanding and awareness.
*************************
