The North Vancouver School District acknowledges and honours the history and culture of the Skwxwú7mesh and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in whose territory we reside. The Skwxwú7mesh Nation, Tsleil-Waututh First Nation and Métis Nation of British Columbia are key partners in ensuring success for students of Indigenous ancestry.
The North Vancouver School District’s Indigenous Education Program delivers culturally-appropriate educational programs and services to support the academic and personal success of students who self-identify as being of Indigenous ancestry. The term “Indigenous ancestry” embraces all First Nations, status and non-status; Inuit; and Métis peoples.
Goals
By encompassing the values of consultation, communication, collaboration, and consensus building, the Program supports the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement’s three main goals:
- To improve academic success of students of Indigenous ancestry.
To improve the sense of belonging and presence of students of Indigenous ancestry.
To increase the understanding and knowledge of all educators and students in the North Vancouver School District of Indigenous culture, history and ways of knowing, in order to enhance the learning environment for students of Indigenous ancestry.
The Program supports student success by developing individual capacity, ensuring access to a diverse range of educational programs and opportunities, and embodying a more holistic approach to student learning. Providing welcoming schools for students and their families is absolutely fundamental to student success.
Initiatives
To achieve our goals, we have undertaken the following four initiatives:
1. Increase the presence of Indigenous language, history, and culture in the schools and at a District level
2. Increase the number of qualified Indigenous teachers and qualified First Nations Support Workers
3. Promote and increase participation by all partner groups in joint activities that support school and District initiatives
4. Provide ongoing opportunities to meet and discuss Indigenous issues and learning with members.
By acknowledging and honouring the history and culture of the Skwxwú7mesh and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, all North Vancouver students and staff develop an awareness of the rich and vibrant communities in which we reside.
Our knowledge and understanding of the educational needs of students of Indigenous ancestry continues to evolve. In North Vancouver School District, our First Nations Support Workers, First Nations Support Teachers, and Indigenous Success Teachers provide on-going support and ensure the long-term success of students of Indigenous ancestry. For a list of staff members and e-mail contact information,
please click here.
Values statement
Questions?
If you have questions or would like more information about North Vancouver School District’s Indigenous Education Program, please contact the school district.
