THUNDER BAY -- The Lakehead District Public School Board is rolling out a new video to help staff understand how the now-defunct residential school system has impacted First Nations students and their families.
The video, introduced as the fourth round of the cultural training program for all staff first implemented eight years ago, was produced by Amy Farrell-Morneau, the board's indigenous community liaison officer.
A board official says it reflects the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
"It really tells the story, right from the beginning, how we ended up having residential schools in Canada, the really difficult impacts on children and families, as well as moving into truth and reconciliation—the apologies that occurred, not only from the government of Canada but from the churches," said Sherri-Lynne Pharand, superintendent of education.
Pharand said the video also facilitates a conversation about "how is it that we all, moving forward, contribute to reconciliation."
Farrell-Morneau has already conducted training for the board's administrative staff including principals, vice-principals, managers and superintendents. They are now bringing the video along with a discussion guide to staff meetings at every school in the system, with the process set to be completed in June.
Pharand said some teachers in more senior grades may choose to use the video in the classroom, but because "it's a very difficult topic," parents will be notified in advance.
"The legacy and history of residential schools in Canada is such an emotional topic, and we would want to make sure that, in the event it brought up negative emotions, we would have supports in place" for students.
The 40-minute narrated video was developed in consultation with the board's Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee and Elders Council which provided advice on the content.
Pharand said she believes the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's findings will remain important in the years ahead "as we all contribute toward sharing with staff and with students the true history of Canada, and take steps collaboratively and collectively towards true reconciliation."
