We are pleased to share upcoming events, learning opportunities, and resources that may be of interest to Indigenous families, children and youth.

Brook Trout Hatcheries at St. Kateri Tekawitha Catholic School and St. Anne Catholic School

DCDSB students have had the opportunity to take care of brook trout in their classrooms! Ms. Casey's Grade 4 class at St. Kateri Tekawitha Catholic School and Ms. Paul's Grade 8 class at St. Anne Catholic School share the knowledge they have gathered throughout the first life stage of the brook trout and what they look forward to in the second and third life stages.

We will keep families updated on this exciting project as the fish continue to grow!

Making Miniature Drum Shakers with the Elementary Indigenous Student Circle

On January 16, First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students from the Elementary Indigenous Student Circle met to learn some drum teachings and how to make miniature drum shakers. After sharing a meal and opening circle, students set to work painting their drum frames. They learned how to use deer hide and sinew to create the heads of the drum. Drums and shakers are both important cultural items in many Indigenous nations, and as the day went on students started to learn more about why we use these items and the teachings about them.

Indigenous Education Highlights

It's been a busy few weeks as students and staff across DCDSB have continued to engage in Indigenous Education.

Please see the stories below to learn more:

• Vicky the Real Artist Visits Grade 1 Students at St. Paul Catholic School
• Grade 6 Students Welcome Author, David A. Robertson
• Secondary Students Express Their Individual Stories Through Art
• St. Patrick Catholic School Pilots New Indigenous Education Resources
• Students Paint with Isaac Murdoch at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic School
• Student Murals at Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School

Monthly Teachings with Elder Dorothy Taylor: Giin Gdabanim

Every month, the First Peoples Indigenous Centre at Durham College hosts free Traditional Knowledge Sharing Circles with Elder Dorothy Taylor, covering a range of traditional stories and teachings. Join in person at the Durham College First Peoples Indigenous Centre or online via Zoom!

The next session is on March 12, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., and will discuss Giin Gdabanim-Returning to Balance.

Please click here to register.