Vision

To create an outdoor Indigenous learning space, that creates opportunities for students, staff, and the community to connect with nature and celebrate Indigenous culture, tradition, and teaching. This project has many stakeholders including both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, Indigenous knowledge keepers (academics, community members, Elders), and various divisional staff (EAs, teachers, Indigenous Support Teacher, Oak Park Administration).

Action

November-January 2021: Planning, engaging with community, writing grant proposals.
February-March 2022: Refining the project with stakeholders, engaging landscape architect and division buildings and grounds team.
April: Final Plans, planning for
May/June 2021: Shovel in the ground

Reflection & Celebration

• Our 3-5 year school goal at Oak Park is: To have all staff and students embrace Indigenous (Indian, Inuit, & Metis) ways of knowing, doing, and being; to enhance our Indigenous students’ engagement and success in school. Having a teaching space in front of our school demonstrates our commitment towards our school goal and reconciliation. It will also create endless opportunities for teaching and learning that honours, centres, and celebrates Indigenous culture.
• Creating a visible, culturally safe space that is accessible to our school and community.
• Creating authentic opportunities for student to engage in Indigenous culture and teachings.
• Creating a sense of belonging and acceptance.
• Celebrating and honouring the gifts of Indigenous culture.
• The class of 2020 donated $12,500 to the project from their cancelled safe grad event to leave a legacy!