Page 17 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9 AND 10 | Canadian and World Studies

INDIGENOUS EDUCATION IN ONTARIO
First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students in Ontario will have the knowledge, skills,
and confidence they need to successfully complete their elementary and secondary education in order to pursue postsecondary education or training and/or to enter the workforce. They will have the traditional and contemporary knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to be socially contributive, politically active, and economically prosperous citizens of the world. All students in Ontario will have knowledge and appreciation of contemporary and traditional First Nation, Métis, and Inuit traditions, cultures, and perspectives.
Ontario First Nation, Metis and Inuit Education Policy Framework (2007)
The Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework is part of Ontario’s Indigenous Education Strategy, which supports the achievement and well-being of Indigenous students across the province. The strategy also raises awareness about
First Nation, Métis, and Inuit cultures, histories, perspectives, and contributions among all students in Ontario schools. The strategy is an essential component of Ontario’s partnership with Indigenous peoples, and addresses a critical gap in Ontario’s efforts to promote high levels of achievement for all students.
Consistent with the strategy, the present revision of the social studies and history curriculum was developed in collaboration with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit educators, community members, and organizations in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action numbers 62 and 63. The revision strengthens learning connected with Indigenous perspectives, cultures, histories, and contemporary realities, including those related to the residential school system and treaties.
It is essential that learning activities and materials used to support Indigenous education are authentic and accurate and do not perpetuate culturally and historically inaccurate ideas and understandings. It is important for educators and schools to select resources that portray the uniqueness of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit histories, perspectives, and world views authentically and respectfully. It is also important to select resources that reflect local Indigenous communities as well as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals and communities from across Ontario and Canada. Resources that best support Indigenous education feature Indigenous voices and narratives and are developed by, or in collaboration with, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. Schools can contact their board’s Indigenous lead for assistance in evaluating and selecting resources.
Cultural Safety
It is important to create a learning environment that is respectful and that makes students feel safe and comfortable not only physically, socially, and emotionally but also in terms of their cultural heritage. A culturally safe learning environment is one in which students feel comfortable about expressing their ideas, opinions, and needs and about responding authentically to topics that may be culturally sensitive. Teachers should be aware that some students may experience emotional reactions when learning about issues that have affected their own lives, their family, and/or their community, such as the legacy of the residential school system. Before addressing such topics in the classroom, teachers need to consider how to prepare and debrief students, and they need to ensure that resources are available to support students both inside and outside the classroom.
INTRODUCTION
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