Lakeland Catholic School Division respects the historical significance and contributions of Indigenous People and their cultures. The division understands the Indigenous community's critical role today and in the future. The Division recognizes the need to take appropriate action to bridge and build relationships with our First Nation communities.

Our learning community includes 8 schools in Treaty 6, which support students primarily from Cold Lake First Nations, Kehewin Cree Nation, Elizabeth Métis Settlement, Kikino Métis Settlement, and First Nations of Tribal Chiefs.

In addition to creating school-based support for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, the Division continues toward fulfillment of the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada that apply to the education system. These steps include acknowledging the ancestral and traditional lands of the Treaty 6 Territory on which our buildings are located and demonstrating the Division’s commitment to fostering Indigenous awareness and understanding by infusing Indigenous artifacts and language within our schools as a reminder of the history and importance of the Treaties.

Through continuing to embrace our Indigenous communities, several key objectives emerge for education planning:

• Providing support to students with an Indigenous Outreach Worker;

• Improving the educational experiences of Indigenous students;

• Supporting educational achievement among Indigenous students;

• Improving the well-being of Indigenous students;

• Increasing the participation of Indigenous students in education;

• Improving the engagement of Indigenous students in education;

• Expanding understanding of Indigenous language and culture within our schools and

• Establishing stronger relationships through effective collaboration with our Indigenous community partners

Our Division supports teachers, administrators, and division office staff in their commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation's Calls to Action (2015). Through their guidance and support, they lead in the development of staff by:

• Obtaining practical strategies and materials for the full integration of Indigenous perspectives into the classroom

• Offering approaches for teaching Indigenous learners and working with Indigenous families

• Making connections to Elders, cultural instructors, and other resource people for authentic learning experiences

• Promoting further understanding of treaties and agreements negotiated with First Nations and the Métis in Canada

• Providing opportunities to learn about residential schools and their legacy

• Building on existing awareness of historical, social, economic, and political realities of Indigenous individuals/nations 

• Participating in school events that foster understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures, languages and histories.

• Supporting staff in the attainment of school resources

• Broadening current practice to include pedagogy consistent with Indigenous ways of learning and knowing.