(Fort McMurray, AB, June 7, 2022) Congratulations to our Elders’ Council which won the Public School Boards' Association of Alberta’s (PSBAA) Award for “Promoting and Advancing the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) as it relates to Education in Alberta,” on June 4, 2022. The award was announced at the PSBAA’s spring general assembly in Red Deer.
The PSBAA is the “only association representing and advocating for Alberta's public school boards and public school education in Alberta.”
FMPSD launched the Council last June with five local Elders from the Mikisew Cree First Nation, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Fort McMurray First Nation 468, and Métis Local 1935 to advise the Division on Indigenous matters, and upcoming events. The goal is to advance our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, and enhance Indigenous Education - a continuous FMPSD priority.
Elder Lorraine Albert was on hand to receive the award.
“This is an honour, and a great step forward in acknowledging the role that Elders play in education. Thanks to FMPSD, land-based learning and traditional teaching opportunities are being passed down to the younger generation. The award acknowledges us as a team not an individual.”
“The Fort McMurray Public School Board is to be commended for listening and implementing Indigenous and Métis teachings and culture in the school system. I thank Linda (Mywaart, Board Chair) for the nomination and Annalee (Nutter, Superintendent, FMPSD) for her tireless support last year despite the challenges we faced. Looking forward to strengthening our relationship in the future. Marci Cho,” Elder Albert said.
Linda Mywaart, FMPSD Board Chair was also in attendance.
"The Board is pleased that the FMPSD Elders’ Council has been recognized with this Award and are so grateful for their wisdom and guidance as we walk an ongoing path of reconciliation.”
“Their willingness to share time, knowledge, languages, cultures, and skills, enriches Indigenous Education at FMPSD for both students and staff. The Elders’ Council knows so many truths that are necessary for connecting with our students and families out on the land and in our classrooms. We thank each person who is part of the Elders’ Council, with special thanks to Superintendent Nutter for all her work, and we look forward to many more learning opportunities from them and with them."
Indeed, Superintendent Nutter was critical in organizing and launching the group.
“We are humbled to have received this Award. The Elders’ Council has been critical in enhancing Indigenous Education. Whether it is land-based learning, sharing experiences, or advising us, their contribution is invaluable for our students and staff. Thank you to our Elders for their time, and for making us better,” Superintendent Nutter remarked.
Congratulations all!
Photo: L-R: Elder Lorraine Albert, Superintendent Nutter, Chair Mywaart, Malcolm Setter, FMPSD Trustee - at the PSBAA awards ceremony in Red Deer
For more information, please contact:
Kiran Malik-Khan
Communications Consultant
FMPSD
kiran.malikkhan@fmpsd.ab.ca