Cree School Board Highlights 2022-2023

Welcome to the Cree School Board’s journey of milestones and achievements in the year of 2022-2023. As we reflect on this incredible time, we are pleased to share a collection of stories that demonstrate our dedication to Eeyou education, empowerment, and diversity. From empowering our Cree families and continuing our iiyiyiu education journey to PSSS Conference highlights, the inspirational impact on traditional teachings and the successful launch of the Bully Free program in our classrooms, join us as we celebrate the progress made in shaping a brighter future for our students and communities.
Regional General Assembly - Special Needs Symposium - Bully Free Program - Traditional Knowledge - Recruitment Event - PSSS Conference
Continuing Our iiyiyiu Education Journey
We recently had its 4th Regional General Assembly through a community tour, visiting Cree communities and schools between October 2022 and February 2023. The tour emphasized the importance of Eeyou education and provided an opportunity for meaningful discussions with parents, students, and community members. The assembly informed the communities about the Cree School Board's progress, strategic actions, and recent initiatives, leaving the leadership inspired and dedicated to improving education. Together, we are working to create a bright and empowered future.
Empowering Cree Families
We organized a successful Special Needs Symposium in partnership with Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay and the Cree Nation Government’s Child and Family Services. The “Stronger Together” ᒫᒨ ᒪᔥᑰᑳᐴᑖᐤ symposium happened from November 29 to December 1, 2022 in Gatineau, Quebec, and provided a safe space for parents and caregivers to connect, share stories, and learn from each other. Workshops covered topics like Jordan's Principle, mindful parenting, and sensory awareness, emphasizing self-care and resilience. Renowned speaker Jolene Stockman's presence highlighted the potential for limitless possibilities. The symposium promoted unity, collaboration, and collective empowerment among parents and caregivers.
Schools Successfully Implement Bully Free Program
We successfully launched the Cree School Board Bully Free Program during the 2022-2023 school year, engaging students from elementary to secondary schools. The program will be fully implemented in all schools starting 2023-2024 school year. Our mission emphasizes inclusivity, respect, and active participation. We kept parents and community members informed and involved, and our Safe Schools and Anti-Bullying Policy reinforced our commitment to a safe learning environment. Our dedicated principals address bullying with interventions at school and home. We also established initiatives in the schools to strengthen relationships within the community, fostering collaboration between home, community, and school. Our goal is to create a supportive and encouraging learning environment for all students to thrive.
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Traditional Teachings Bring Inspiration to Classrooms
We launched the iiyiyiuwayihtimuwin/iinuuweyhtamuwin – Elder and Traditional Knowledge Keeper Teachings Video Project, in collaboration with New Paths of Education. The goal of this initiative was to capture and preserve the traditional teachings of Cree elders from nine communities. The recordings were shown at community gatherings, which were followed by feasts and recognition of elders who participated in the project. Lesson plans and materials were developed to incorporate the teachings into the curriculum. This initiative represents a step towards decolonizing education, highlighting Cree values. The project was completed in February 2022, with 42 informative teachings recorded. The videos are accessible on the Cree School Board's website, where they will live on as a lasting legacy and source of inspiration to all.
Join Our Team: Teacher Recruitment Event
We were thrilled to host the CSB Teacher Recruitment Event at the Delta Hotel in Montreal on March 13-14, 2023. This year, we collaborated with the department of iiyiyiuiyihtiwin Research & Development to have Cree elders as special guests and co-hosts. Their presence enriched the experience, showcasing traditional works, tools, and arts. Our goal was to recruit qualified teachers for the Cree School Board, providing schools with the chance to meet candidates in person. The event also featured booths highlighting community, school, student life, and the beauty of Cree communities. The participation of Cree elders celebrated the culture and heritage, giving potential applicants a deeper understanding of the Cree way of life. We are grateful to all who participated, including departments sharing organizational information with potential candidates. We hope this event will benefit students by adding dedicated and passionate teachers to our CSB team for our schools.
Highlights from the PSSS Conference
We held the Post-Secondary Student Services Conference in Ottawa, Ontario, and it was packed with excitement and opportunities for Cree students. The three-day conference happened from April 21 to April 23, 2023, themed 'miyipiihtahaasutaau chiniimuutaanawaau' ᒥᔪᐲᐦᑕᐦᐋᓱᑖᐤ ᒋᓃᒨᑖᓇᐧᐋᐤ, gave students the opportunity to showcase their abilities, connect with employers, explore careers, and attend workshops on growth, culture, and history. The event’s excitement was enhanced with keynote speakers and challenges with laptop prizes. Dr. Sarah Pashagumskum, Chairperson of the Cree School Board, honoured the students and expressed confidence in their bright and prosperous future. The conference left students with potential employers and a fresh sense of purpose. The connections made will contribute to our students' success and our nation's capacity building efforts.
As we come to a close to the 2022-2023 school year, we want to thank all parents, teachers, students, and community members who contributed to these accomplishments. Your continuous support and dedication had a significant influence on the lives of our students and the success of our educational initiatives. We have shown the power of unity and collaboration by demonstrating our commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environment for everyone. Looking ahead, we welcome the challenges and opportunities that await us, knowing that with determination, we will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of our Cree students.
Thank you for being part of Eeyou education, and we look forward to the bright future in the 2023-2024 school year!