Learning to Do
How does empowering differ from delegating?

Rocky View School Division No. 41 found that this work started with collaborative, respectful relationships within communities, cultural knowledge keepers, post-secondary institutes and students. They use a planning process for authentic inquiry, Learning Stories videos, blogging, and Google Apps.

Their community of practice focuses on how First Nations, Métis, and Inuit teachings and perspectives can be infused into everyday practice to benefit all students. They implemented a cultural competency workshop and learn authentically from Blackfoot subject matter experts at the Glenbow Museum. The Poverty Simulation and Brain Game builds understanding of poverty and the impact of early stress on childhood brain development. They emphasize responsive professional learning opportunities such as “lunch and learns,” self-directed professional development, and professional learning with the whole school.

Watch the Rocky View School Division No. 41 presentation at Spring Gathering 2016.

Calgary Catholic School District focuses on the cultural, spiritual, emotional, academic and wellness of children. They built a space to reflect the heritage of all students and developed a Treaty 7 recognition sign for the front foyer. Students created a welcome mural in the Nakoda language.

They provide hands-on learning in wood-working and metal, a Food and Fashion focus on tradition and culture, and engage community members and elders in teaching about making regalia and food preparation. They focus on dispelling myths and respecting each other. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit history and culture does matter to their students and makes them feel more welcome in the school.

Watch the Calgary Catholic School District presentation at Spring Gathering 2016.