Niitsitapi Learning Centre

As I continue my research and investigation into different Indigenous policy models and frameworks in Alberta I came across the Niitsitapi Learning Centre operated by the Calgary Board of Education. http://school.cbe.ab.ca/school/niitsitapi/Pages/default.aspx Situated in Calgary, the Niitsitapi Learning Centre operates as an early childhood/K-2 program that supports Indigenous culture and meets the program of studies through the embedding of traditional ways of knowing.

I struggle with the amount of apathy in Alberta towards Indigenous culture and the lack of progress that is made in teacher training in traditional ways of knowing. I was uplifted to see a school district that is working towards meeting the outcomes highlighted by the Assembly of First Nations and their Policy Paper on Indigenous control of Indigenous Education (2010). Within that document and the previous one released in 1972 the importance of early childhood centres was clearly articulated. It was important that Indigenous children have a positive first experience in formalized school that values their culture and gives them a sense of pride in their sophisticated culture. It is vital that these early learning centers serve as foundations that value the holistic development of Indigenous culture and perspectives in education. There is a clear vision that aligns with a sense of hope for the future of young Indigenous learners in the education system that is desperately needed. This school clearly is a valuable resource and the CBE should be commended for this development.

One area that continues to be a glaring weakness is in language development. There is a brief mention of language rooted in cultural tradition but it does not highlight how this school can help revitalize Indigenous languages here in Treaty 7 territory. Despite this area of weakness I am beginning to be filled with optimism that school districts in Alberta are taking steps to change the educational outcomes for Indigenous students and giving them a brighter future.