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Indigenous Education

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Way' Parents/Guardians of HS Grenda Indigenous students,

We would like to acknowledge that we are learning, living, and thriving on the traditional and unceded territory of the Syilx people. We are grateful for the opportunity to be here, and we thank the generations of Syilx people who have been the stewards of the land and water for thousands of years.

As we begin another exciting school year at HMS, we welcome our returning and new students and families to the Indigenous department. Our team consists of returning Advocate Ms. Cara Lee and we are pleased to introduce and welcome Ms. Jaime Kimmitt who although new to HMS, was previously the Indigenous Advocate at Peter Greer Elementary. We will both be providing personal/cultural support in the new Gathering Room and throughout the school.

Our role gives us a chance to assist students of Indigenous ancestry through encouragement, motivation, and support, in and out of the classroom.  We are here to recognize the success of Indigenous students in our school and promote cultural awareness and pride throughout the entire school population.

You may or may not be aware of the Indigenous Student Advocate's role within the school, so we have included a list of some of the services available.  Please be aware that not all services will pertain to every student or family. The Indigenous Education Program enhances students' school experience by including: ​

1. Creating a relationship with students with Indigenous ancestry and meeting with them throughout the school year to maintain this relationship.

2. Helping with life skills including areas around clothing, health issues and personal support.

3. Providing academic, emotional, social, cultural and/or behavioural support.

4. Assisting with academic or behavioural goal setting.

5. Communicating with parents for I.E.P.'s or other concerns.

6. Contacting outside agencies (e.g. Public Health, Native Housing, Mama's for Mama's, etc.).

7. Working closely with teachers and other school staff to plan effectively for the student.

8. Monitoring attendance of Indigenous students and attempting to problem solve for those not attending regularly.

9. Leadership opportunities

10. Cultural programming (including field trip opportunities and support both in and out of the classroom)

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Participation in our program is voluntary and flexible for each individual learner.  We encourage our students to visit the new Gathering Room whether it's for a quick hello and schedule check, eating lunch or for help with navigating the new school year.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any academic concerns and your advocates Cara and Jaime for any other questions or concerns regarding your child/children between the hours of 8:00am-4pm Monday through Friday. We look forward to providing exceptional support for Indigenous students of all Nations guided by the Four Food Chiefs.



In the spirit of learning,
 

Cara Lee Koebel (she/her) Metis                       Jaime Kimmitt (she/her) Metis

Indigenous Advocate                                                Indigenous Advocate                           
cara.koebel@sd23.bc.ca                                          jaime.kimmitt@sd23.bc.ca       

 


 


​Please click on the image below to be redirected to the District Indigenous Education website.

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​Red Dress Day & Moose Hide Campaign Day

 

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