Embracing #WeAreKPR Values, Learning and Action Through the Passport to Reconciliation

The Passport to Reconciliation program at KPR was launched in November 2021 as a way for school communities to work together and actively engage in broad-based collective learning and action year-round.

The program introduces a new learning focus each month, with weekly activities, reflection questions and links to resources to help students and staff deepen their insight and gain a holistic understanding of Indigenous history, culture and perspectives.

Three students holding up Orange Shirt Day artwork

Last year, the program supported many classrooms and school communities as they engaged in meaningful learning experiences, and we hope staff and students will build on this momentum during the 2022-2023 school year!

One class that was particularly engaged in the program during its first year, was Grade 5/6 class at C.R. Gummow Public School.

Guided by their teacher Joselyn Chapman, students explored the Michif and Anishinaabemowin languages, learned about clean water initiatives in First Nations communities, engaged in frequent learning with Melody Crowe, KPR’s First Nation Education Liaison, participated in Inuit throat singing, and created artwork for the “Imagine a Canada Reconciled” National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation art competition.

Throughout the year, Joselyn’s class also recognized important days of significance along with the entire school community, such as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation/Orange Shirt Day and the Moosehide Campaign.

Reflecting on their participation in these activities, Joselyn emphasizes the importance of continuing to integrate this work into everyday learning. “We are committed to making it not just a day, but an attitude of the school,” she shares.

She says the Passport to Reconciliation program helps address the gaps in knowledge that impact our understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives. “Some of the kids in my class and their families had no idea about residential schools or Canada’s history of genocide. We have used the vetted resources provided in the Passport to Reconciliation program to gain knowledge that will help us move forward as humans, together, in a good way,” says Joselyn.

Families can follow @KPRIndigenous and visit the Indigenous Education section of our website to learn more about the Passport to Reconciliation Program and to access resources that will support you on your journey of #ReconciliACTION.