CONNECT 2024

Trauma-informed approaches are essential for educators, especially when addressing the legacy of residential schools and their impact on students and families. This approach recognizes the prevalence of trauma and its effects on behavior and learning, emphasizing principles such as safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, and empowerment.

Educators can enhance their understanding by becoming aware of historical contexts, recognizing signs of trauma, and building strong, trusting relationships with students and parents. Open communication and cultural sensitivity are crucial in creating supportive environments, along with flexibility in teaching methods to accommodate various emotional needs.
Additionally, acknowledging the intergenerational trauma stemming from residential schools highlights the importance of community engagement and ongoing professional development.

By fostering a trauma-informed mindset, educators can create inclusive learning environments that promote resilience and improve educational outcomes for all students.

Tansi,

My name is Sheyna Badger, and I’m from Bonnyville, AB. I would like to share the meaning of protocol in Indigenous cultures, as well as how to prepare and offer it.

Protocol embodies the sacred customs and practices that guide interactions within Indigenous communities and between Indigenous peoples and those from outside. It is a vital thread in the fabric of cultural preservation, ensuring that the wisdom and values of our ancestors are passed down through generations. By honoring these protocols, we show respect for the people, the land, and the interconnectedness of all life. This fosters the trust and understanding essential for building strong relationships.