Ahnii/Shekoli/Hello,
I arrived here as a young girl from Portugal with my family and was raised in a very traditional home where our language and culture was celebrated and honoured. It is my own personal goal to be a helper, so that this generation and future generations understand the historical and current events that have impacted the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people on what we now know as Canada. I am extremely fortunate to work with a great team of individuals dedicated to improving the educational experiences of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students within our school board. I have been a teacher with the GECDSB for 20 years and have spent 8 of those years dedicated to Indigenous Education. In collaboration with the community, I provide staff and students opportunities to learn the true history of Turtle Island using authentic learning resources, experiences and Indigenous voices. I look forward to continuing to listen and learn from students, parents and guardians in order to do the work with an open mind and heart.
Boozhoo/Sheko:li (Greetings),
I am an Oneida and Ojibwe from Bkejwanong Territory (Walpole Island First Nation). I am active in my culture, in both traditional and educational aspects. My educational background is law oriented but I have many years of experience working with First Nations, Métis, & Inuit youth. I previously worked with the Walpole Island Secondary School Program as a First Nation, Métis , and Inuit student support worker for Secondary School students.
I have been able to add to my experience and learn how to better my support for Indigenous students of all ages while working here at the Greater Essex County District School board with the Open Minds Program.
I look forward to continuing to learn as well as share my Knowledge and experience as a member of the Open Minds Team!
Yaw^ko/ Chi Miigwech!