LAKELAND - Both the Northern Lights Public Schools (NLPS) and the Lakeland Catholic School Division (LCSD) will take steps to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day, observed annually on Sep. 30, marks a time to reflect on the impact of residential schools and Canada's broader path towards reconciliation. Both school divisions will incorporate a variety of activities that engage students and staff in meaningful learning experiences and cultural understanding.
"Northern Lights Public Schools recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by designating it as a no-school day for both students and staff, giving everyone the opportunity to reflect and observe the day in a way that holds personal meaning for them,” said Nicole Garner, Communications and Public Relations Manager at NLPS.
While students and staff are given the day off, NLPS dedicates the week leading up to Sept. 30 to learning about the topic.
"Our schools organize a range of activities that foster learning and reflection. These include integrating discussions on Truth and Reconciliation into classroom lessons, holding cultural presentations, inviting Elders to share their knowledge and experiences, and encouraging students and staff to wear orange in recognition of Orange Shirt Day and the legacy of residential schools."
Garner said NLPS incorporates field trips, cultural presentations, and participation in local community events as key elements of its approach to Truth and Reconciliation.
This year, NLPS is increasing engagement with local Indigenous communities, creating more opportunities for meaningful learning. These activities support NLPS's commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action, emphasizing the important role schools play in educating students about the history and lasting impacts of residential schools.
Garner underscored the importance of continuing this work beyond one day, stating, "Our efforts extend beyond just one day, as we strive to incorporate Indigenous cultural teachings and address systemic inequities within the education system that affect Indigenous students and their families."
Similarly, Lakeland Catholic School Division (LCSD) also takes a year-round approach to reconciliation.
Sheyna Badger, Family Indigenous Outreach Worker, and Stefanie Cox, Communications Officer, shared the LCSD perspective, saying the school division recognizes that truth and reconciliation must be honoured not just on Sept. 30, but throughout the year. The school division understands the importance of walking the healing road together within school communities.
LCSD incorporates Indigenous teachings into its curriculum through knowledge keepers, participation in ceremonies, and sharing creation stories.
An Indigenous outreach worker also fosters connection among students, families, and staff, helping to cultivate cultural clubs that enrich the school environment, according to LCSD.
Both NLPS and LCSD acknowledge the value of engaging with Indigenous communities to create authentic, respectful learning opportunities.
At LCSD, this means inviting knowledge keepers and parents to share wisdom, which enriches the collective understanding of staff and students alike.
"By supporting truth and reconciliation efforts, we not only honor our past but also pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future,” according to information from LCSD.
