Celebrating the Indigenous Support Workers
I was so pleased that we extended a special day of support to acknowledge and celebrate support staff in our district on June 1. We invited our Indigenous Support Workers to Mamele’awt for an appreciation tea to enjoy the fruit and chocolate strawberries the Board had sent to thank our staff. It was wonderful to take a bit of time to come together for fun, play some games, laugh and enjoy each other’s company.
Indigenous Support Workers make an immense difference in the lives of the students and parents they support and serve each day. They support student success, provide opportunities to connect with the culture and solidify the students’ sense of cultural identity, and ISWs are amazing advocates for equity and access to all learning opportunities.
We invited our ISWs to share some thoughts on what inspires them in their work. Here are some highlights:
“I am inspired by the beautiful community created by our Indigenous Support Team. Telexw is my favourite time of the week.”
“I am inspired to motivate my students and to be a positive role model for them.”
“I love being able to support the whole family and to make sure that students are proud of who they are and where they come from. I remember when I was in school I felt ashamed but now I have learned to stand proud. I want success, health and education for each of the children and families I serve. I am proud to be Indigenous and I am proud to be an Indigenous Support Worker.”
“I feel like we are changing the world for the better.”
“Together we uplift and empower each other and give each other the tools and inspiration to be our best for students.”
“I love seeing how happy students are to come spend time in the Indigenous room.”
“I am inspired to see students excited to learn.”
“I am inspired that Indigenous Education has created change - even with the adults at our school”
“I love that my students want to learn about their culture and that they want other students to also learn about their culture.”
“I love getting up to go to work and see the success fo our students. After the hurting, and then seeing the smile on their faces, that they are finding joy. This is very rewarding.”
“I love being part of a team that ensures that every child matters!”
“I am inspired by the excitement of our students when they see me at school. It is important that students can see themselves.”
“Representation matters.”
Kw’as hó:y
DARLENE MACDONALD, DISTRICT PRINCIPAL
Indigenous Education