We acknowledge and thank the W̱SÁNEĆ people on whose traditional territory we live, learn, and teach.

Saanich Schools - Indigenous Education Resource Services

Indigenous Education Support Teacher

Some schools have a school based Indigenous Education (IE) Support Teacher that provides cultural and academic support to students. IE Support teachers also work with teachers to connect Indigenous content to classroom learning in support of culturally relevant and meaningful learning opportunities for Indigenous students. IE teachers monitor student progress throughout elementary, middle, and focus on successful transitions and graduation at the secondary level in collaboration with the Indigenous Education Assistant.

Indigenous Education Assistant

All schools have an Indigenous Education Assistant (IEA). Some schools have a school-based staff member while other schools have an Itinerant IEA that travels to several schools throughout the district. IEAs support students directly in the classroom and help facilitate cultural activities within the school and classroom. Indigenous EAs often liaise with the local First Nations communities on behalf of the school and district in support of students, families, and district initiatives.

W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Enhancement Agreement

The Education Enhancement Agreement between the W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in the Saanich School District and the Saanich School Board is designed to enhance the learning opportunities and successes for all Indigenous learners. This Agreement operates within the notion of respecting the rights of Indigenous learners to ensure that they receive a quality education in the public school system and a meaningful graduation that leads to future options with increased opportunities.

W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Enhancement Agreement Goals

Goal 1
All students and staff will strengthen connections between Indigenous Peoples, Saanich Schools and the Saanich School District in support of Indigenous student success.

Goal 2
W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students will strengthen their knowledge and understanding of mental and emotional wellness.

Goal 3
W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students will experience academic success, while maintaining strong cultural identity.

Goal 4
Through increased student leadership opportunities W̱SÁNEĆ, other First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students will enhance their sense of empowerment and responsibility.

Indigenous Education Gazette

The Indigenous Education Program circulates a bi-annual gazette highlighting student and school successes, events, and news. The gazette features student work, photos from school events, and graduates. The gazette is published electronically in January and June each year.

Indigenous Education Resource People

The Indigenous Education staff facilitates guest speaker opportunities with Traditional Knowledge keepers and speakers from the W̱SÁNEĆ, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit community. Resource people are invited into schools to speak to and work with students and staff to build their capacity and understanding of Indigenous history and culture.