Calls to Action #62 and #63 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada include the need for more learning in schools about the histories and contributions of Indigenous Peoples. The TRC and movements such as Orange Shirt Day have helped to raise awareness and understanding about experiences of Indigenous Peoples in residential schools and the impacts of the damaging experiences. Students have expressed their gratitude for learning about the truth of residential schools, and often request further learning about Indigenous Peoples.
This webinar engages with cultural safety and appropriate terminology to use in classrooms and offers a deep dive into a series of lessons and blogs created to support educators in focusing on Indigenous experiences, leaders, resilience, and examples of resistance to colonialism including land protection and promotion of Indigenous rights and identities. These materials were created as part of the Bryce@100 project.
The webinar also includes Amanda Merpaw, Bryce@100 Project Coordinator and DMC’s Education Manager, presenting a brief overview of other Bryce@100 materials.
About Charlene Camillo
Charlene Camillo is from the Moose Cree First Nation and of Italian heritage. She is a teacher and coach in the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB).
From 2016-2022, Charlene was the Learning Coordinator in TVDSB for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Education. In this role, she led professional learning for staff and helped to develop various opportunities for Indigenous students. She also created lesson plans and resources for use in classrooms, and shared best practices in bringing Indigenous content into schools.
Charlene taught multiple subjects from 2010-2016 at Saunders Secondary School in London, ON. In 2022, she returned to Saunders and has been teaching History and Indigenous Studies while coaching Girls Basketball and Girls Hockey, and supporting the Indigenous Student Association.
Charlene has been fortunate to work with multiple First Nations as a teacher and a coach. She continues to take feedback and learning from Indigenous students and families to provide opportunities for staff and students to enhance their knowledge of Indigenous experiences.
