By Tom Mark

Indigenous Learning In North Okanagan-Shuswap

Sep 6, 2017 | 6:49 AM

Students in BC are going to be more involved this year with a new perspective in First Nations history.

The renewed curriculum has been unfolding for a couple of years with the goal of being inclusive of aboriginal world views and perspective.

“So that it presents a balanced perspective of history and of today’s realities as well. So, It’s no longer a euro centric or a non-aboriginal perspective that’s been involved.”

Irene Laboucane is the District Principal of Indigenous Education in the North Okanagan-Shuswap School District.

“And teachers are also becoming learners and they really appreciate the support they’re given because what I’ve heard from a lot of teachers is they want to include aboriginal world views and perspective but they also want to do it in a respectful and appropriate manner.”

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Students in all grades with various courses will learn more about residential schools and how First Nations roles shaped the course of this country.

Laboucane says it’s very important to present authentic materials.

“That is inclusive of the aboriginal voice and in particular, each area is encouraged to acknowledge their local first nations people in their area and to build on their local knowledge.”

Laboucane says she thinks aboriginal graduation rates will increase as those students see themselves in the curriculum and feel valid and important.

by Tom Mark