Indigenous Education

Interested in Indigenous Education at the RCDSB? Want to know more about community and national resources related to this important subject? Please find more information below and be sure to follow us on our social media channels as we continue to share and engage one another in conversation, understanding and learning.

Acknowledgement of Territory

“We acknowledge that the land on which our schools and District buildings are situated is the traditional, unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin people. We also recognize the enduring presence of all First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples on the land on which we gather here today.”

Truth and Reconciliation

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In order to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission made 94 Calls to Action. The RCDSB is committed to Education for Reconciliation, in response to call to action #63.

Voluntary and Confidential Indigenous Student Self-Identification

Here at the RCDSB, we are committed to strengthening our relationship with local Indigenous community members to enhance our delivery of educational programs and services. Ensuring that First Nations, Métis and Inuit students have opportunities and resources to achieve academic success and personal well-being is a top priority.

Self-identification is a voluntary and personal choice for students and families, with no proof of ancestry required. All parents/guardians of First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, and students who are 18 years or older, have the right to self-identify.

If you wish to self-identify yourself or your child, but are unsure if you have done so already, please fill out the Self-Identification Form and return it to your school.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education

The Ontario Government and the RCDSB are dedicated to excellence in education for all students, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students. The RCDSB is committed to providing equitable, inclusive and engaging education opportunities for all students. This commitment is grounded in our shared understanding of developing a school culture where all students feel understood, valued and respected.

Ontario's Indigenous Education Strategy is supporting First Nations, Métis and Inuit students to achieve their full potential. The Ministry of Education is committed to improving Indigenous education in Ontario, improving student achievement and well-being, and closing the achievement gap between Indigenous students and all students. This strategy has been designed to improve opportunities

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for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, and to increase the knowledge and awareness to all students about Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives.

RCDSB Action Plan for Indigenous Education

The Renfrew County District School Board Action Plan for Indigenous Education outlines programs and initiatives that align with the strategy and meet the needs of the local communities. The plan is created in collaboration with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit parents/guardians, community members, organizations and the Indigenous Education Advisory Council.

Indigenous Advisory Council

The Indigenous Education Advisory Council guides the school board in building stronger relationships with communities, sharing information, identifying promising practices, and enhancing collaborative work to support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit student achievement and well-being.

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Community Partners and Additional Resources

Below are links to additional resources with information on the topic referenced above. The RCDSB, other government departments (provincial or federal) or third-party organizations may provide these additional resources: