Aboriginal programs and personnel are made available to all schools in the district for academic and cultural support through the use of designated and targeted Ministry of Education, Aboriginal Enhancement Program funds.
CMSD 82 is very unique in that it is situated in the traditional territories of the Gitksan, Haisla and Tsimshian.
Programs and supports in each of the territories are chosen in collaboration with the schools and Aboriginal communities to address the academic and cultural needs of the Aboriginal students.
Role Model Program
Role Models are welcome in all schools in the district. The sharing of their cultural knowledge, talents and life experiences provide a positive link to the communities and the local culture.
Language Programs
Gitksan Language and Culture is offered to all students in the Hazelton and Kitwanga schools. The district is currently working with the Tsimshian and Haisla communities to develop and implement programs in Terrace and Kitimat.
Literacy Initiatives
Improving Literacy is a high priority in CMSD 82. Literacy Initiatives include:
- PALS
- Summer Reading
- Talking Tables
- Books & Bannock
- Guided Reading
- Literature C
- Culturally relevant books/kits
First Nations Art Teacher & Counsellor
provides instruction in First Nations Art and provides support for Aboriginal students and their families.
First Nations Support Workers
are vital members of every school in the district. Their knowledge of Aboriginal culture and familiarity with the students and their families assists them in working with schools to improve academic achievement for Aboriginal students and cultural awareness and appreciation for all students.
Homework Clubs
provide additional support with homework in several schools in the district. Partnerships with Aboriginal communities provide the same opportunities for bus students to attend Homework Clubs in their home communities.
Cultural Clubs
provide opportunities for all students to learn, share and enjoy cultural knowledge and activities in their schools.
First Nations Education Center
The First Nations Education Center is located at the Suwilaawks Community School and provides culturally relevant services, supports, resources and programs to all schools in Terrace and Thornhill.
Staff includes: Kathy Cooley, Secretary/Resource Clerk Caroline Daniels, Role Model Coordinator
Aboriginal Education Leadership Team
provides educational leadership in the district that will transform what we want, what we believe, and what we know about Aboriginal Education into excellence in practice in teaching and learning.
Enhancement Committiees
in Terrace, Kitimat, Hazelton and Stewart from a cooperative and collaborative partnership between all Aboriginal communities and the district.
Shared decision-making and goal setting allow for greater autonomy for school districts and Aboriginal communities to work together to find solutions that meet the needs of Aboriginal students.
