One focus of the PHPS Education Plan is eliminating the achievement gap between First Nations, Métis and Inuit students and all other students. In 2016-17 we began to respond to some of the Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

We honor and respect the historical significance and contributions of Aboriginal Peoples to Canada and  recognize the important role that the Aboriginal community plays today and in the future. We have begun the practice of opening Board meetings and certain assemblies at schools with an Acknowledgement Statement.  Our statement is intended to honor the past, to honor the land and the people of Treaty 6, 7 or 8 and to connect us for the future in reflection of the division motto “Together We Learn”.

It’s very important that all members of our learning community gain an understanding of First Nations, Métis and Inuit history and culture. Professional learning for staff has focused on the residential school experience and how we are all impacted by the treaties within the province of Alberta. More and more teachers have been introducing literature respectful of and focused on the perspectives of Canada’s Indigenous people.  

We are learning together to acquire and apply foundational knowledge about First Nations, Métis and Inuit, for the benefit of all students, and in support of the process of reconciliation.