Northland School Division (NSD) continues to strengthen its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation through the creation of the Superintendent's Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council. The council held its first meeting on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. The meeting began with Elder Dr. Francis Whiskeyjack offering an opening prayer, ceremony, and song, honouring traditional ways of knowing, doing, and being. Deputy Superintendent Scott Meunier followed with a land acknowledgment.
Back Row: Jesse Lamouche (Ward 4 Trustee), Debbie Mineault (Director of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education), Scott Meunier (Deputy Superintendent), Robin Guild (Vice-Chair), John Bigstone (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Roy Yellowknee (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Ron Cowan (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Mark Owens (Associate Superintendent), Cal Johnson (Superintendent of Schools/CEO)
Middle Row: Randy Anderson (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Melanie Lap (Indigenous Cultural Land-Based Learning Coach), Lorraine McGillivray (Ward 1 Trustee), Paul Courtoreille (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Tom Duocher (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Angela James (Supervisor of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education)
Front Row: Marianne Moberly (Ward 2 Trustee), Irene Pirie (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Vicky Wanyandie (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Mary Cowan (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Virginia Cardinal (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative), Tina St. Germain (Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council Representative)
The Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council will play a critical role in helping connect First Nations and Métis culture, language, and traditions with Northland schools. Council members will guide the division in creating learning opportunities that reflect Indigenous knowledge and perspectives, supporting NSD's top priority in its Education Plan: Connections Supporting Reconciliation. During the meeting, Elders and Knowledge Keepers discussed the importance of:
- Teaching about the land through activities like water and medicine walks.
- Preserving traditional languages to help students connect with their culture.
- Sharing stories, practicing traditions and helping students feel proud of who they are.
Council members emphasized the need to remove barriers to learning by addressing historical challenges and integrating cultural representation into classrooms. They also shared ideas for involving youth and communities in this important work moving forward. "The wisdom shared by Elders and Knowledge Keepers is so important," said Cal Johnson, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "With their guidance, we can help students see themselves reflected in their learning, take pride in who they are, and thrive throughout their educational journey."
The Superintendent's Elder and Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council will meet virtually on Thursday, February 20, 2025. The council will also gather for an in-person meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 and Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The feedback from the December 4th meeting will be shared with council members, staff, students, parents/guardians, community members and education partners.
For more information please contact Media Relations Manager Curtis Walty at 780-624-2060 ext. 6183 or curtis.walty@nsd61.ca.
