Niagara Catholic Land Recognition:
The Niagara Catholic District School Board honours the Indigenous people who have been the protectors of this land known as Turtle Island for more than 10,000 years.
We recognize the land on which we learn and work is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Agreement.
Today this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, and acknowledging reminds us that our great standard of living is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous people.
Niagara Catholic is committed to Truth and Reconciliation. We are listening, we are learning, and we are called to action. Learn more about our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation here.
Indigenous Education at Niagara Catholic:
Niagara Catholic supports Indigenous students' unique learning needs. The Indigenous Education team meets students where they are on their academic journey. By having Indigenous educators walk with them, students feel supported and nurtured.
Many Indigenous students attend our traditional elementary and secondary schools. Others thrive in a non-traditional classroom setting and attend our St. Kateri school. Here, students explore their culture through land-based learning.
It is important for all students to see themselves in their leaders and in their school. Niagara Catholic continues to invest in books, music, art, and programs that are culturally relevant to Indigenous students.
Self-identified students take part in sessions designed to encourage them to stay in school. We value our relationships with the Indigenous community and are grateful for their support for Indigenous student success. These organizations provide valuable education and opportunities for Indigenous students to discover new pathways and reach their full potential.
Niagara Catholic continues to advance the recommendations in the Truth and Reconciliation Report. We acknowledge the past and commit to listening and learning from those speaking the truth.
All students benefit when they learn from different cultures and experiences. Non-Indigenous students are learning more about the important roles Indigenous people played in Canadian history. Books by and about Indigenous people are finding more space on library shelves. Niagara Catholic also invests in bringing Indigenous speakers to our schools.
Please speak to your child's school for self-identification information.