A banner made of four photos. The first photo shows artwork by students recognizing Orange Shirt Day. The second photo shows an Indigenous knowledge keeper showing students how to traditionally prepare a fire during camping trip. The third photo shows red dresses hanging on a fence honouring and remembering all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. The fourth photo shows a presentation by the Equity Department at the CEC in collaboration with the Special Education Department, showing a collage of student artwork of Indigenous peoples and culture.

Indigenous Education

Indigenous Education at TCDSB

About Us

Indigenous Education at TCDSB is grounded in Two Eyed Seeing, learning from both Indigenous and Western ways of knowing. We work to create spaces where First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students see themselves reflected, and where every student learns Indigenous histories with honesty and respect. We honour the Elders and Knowledge Keepers who guide our work, bringing vital teachings into classrooms and into the Indigenous Education Council.

Our Resource Teachers, Facilitators, and Cultural Liaison carry these teachings directly into classrooms across the system, alongside Indigenous curriculum and hands on learning for students and teachers. We also build lasting relationships with Indigenous communities, working in collaboration with guest speakers who help bring those teachings to life for all learners. 

Student Engagement

Our Student Engagement team works directly with Indigenous students across TCDSB, building relationships that support graduation, cultural connection, and personal growth from Kindergarten through Grade 12. The team provides consistent, one on one support and stays connected through regular school visits, so families and students always know who to turn to. Support can be requested at any time, whether academic, cultural, or personal. 

Indigenous Student Support Request

The Tree of Life Indigenous Education Framework 

Our approach to Indigenous Education is rooted in the sacred teaching of the Tree of Life, shared with us by Elders from our Indigenous Education Council. This teaching reminds us of our connection to all of Creation and guides our framework built on the Four R's of Indigenous Education: Respect, Relevance, Reciprocity, and Responsibility. 

Explore the Tree of Life Framework.

Thumbnail showing the cover of the document, which has a graphic of a tree whose trunk is the silhouette of a woman's body, above which is the title The Tree of Life Indigenous Education Framework. Above this is the logo of the Indigenous Education department, which has the TCDSB logo as part of it.

Connect With Us

Contact  Us

Andre O'Bonsawin
Head of Indigenous Affairs
Email: andre.obonsawin@tcdsb.org