Students in Alberta at every grade level will now learn about a dark part of Canadian history.
Alberta Education announced Tuesday morning that teachers would be provided with lesson plans to teach students about the history and legacy of residential schools, as well as the history of First Nations, Metis and Inuit culture.
“It is critical our students understand the history of residential schools, along with the histories and vibrant cultures of Indigenous communities and the role we all have to play in reconciliation. It’s equally important teachers have the tools they need to feel empowered to teach this important material in the classroom as we work to prepare our students for success,” said Education Minister, David Eggen.
Including Indigenous history in classroom curriculum is part of the Government of Alberta’s (GOA) commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“We are making important progress in our journey towards reconciliation and a shared understanding. Now is a time like no other in Alberta history. We have the opportunity and responsibility to teach the truth and to provide an accurate account of our Canadian society,” said Tony Alexis, chief of Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation.
“These new resources will shed light on our painfully dark history, and like our TRC commission reminds us, there cannot be reconciliation without truth. Announcements like todays are significant pathways to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities.”
The lesson plans have been developed for grades one to nine in Language Arts, Fine Arts, Science and Social Studies.
