Around 900 Grade 5 students at the Wellington Catholic District School Board had the opportunity to engage and learn about Inuit culture and experiences during National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.
The school-based event, called Inuit Elders and Youth, is led by Aalpi Galliford, a local Inuk helper who shares his passion for his culture, language and experiences as a local Inuit youth.
The presentation is part of the WCDSB commitment to Reconciliation and responding to Calls to Action 62 and 63, which by partnering with local Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and communities, aims to incorporate Indigenous cultures, language, worldviews and knowledge into classroom environments and support students.
Catharine Doucette, support teacher for responsibilities with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education for the WCDSB, said all Grade 5 teachers were provided with one of three time slots and were able to select which one worked best for their class, and Galliford joined these classes virtually.
“This presentation provides an opportunity to incorporate authentic Inuit voice, culture and world views into the classroom and to continue to build respectful relationships with Aalpi,” said Doucette in an email. “Aalpi discussed the importance of elders, sharing knowledge and learning from them, he shared stories from his family’s history about living on the land and passing down knowledge.”
Doucette explained this presentation is interactive, positive and of high interest to students at the junior level, which is Grade 4 to Grade 6.
She adds the presentation also responds to grade five curriculum expectations which focus on personal identity as a member of communities and to analyze the impact of human activities and technological innovations.
After the presentation, Doucette said follow-up visits will take place and teachers can invite Galliford to visit virtually or on site, giving students the chance to ask followup questions or build a relationship with Galliford. On site visits will be happening outside with one cohort at a time and two metres of physical distancing.
“We really appreciate how engaging Aalpi is and the relationships he develops with students quite easily,” said Doucette further in the email, “Also, we want to ensure that positive images and interactions with First Nations, Metis & Inuit youth are part of Orange Shirt Day events. We also hope that all students can appreciate the theme of learning from their grandparents and other important caregivers in their lives.”
