We begin by acknowledging the land and our responsibility to care for and respect all that provides us with life. This land upon which HDSB is situated is on the ancestral, treaty and title lands of the Anishinaabek Ojibwe Michizaagiig Nation, now known as the Mississaugas of the Credit. Michizaagig territory in the past and present continues to host both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
The HDSB is committed to continuous knowledge building with respect to actions that address and resolve the ongoing impacts of colonialism. We do this by learning and understanding the true history, treaty obligations, duties and responsibilities and Indigenous Rights while actively maintaining mutually beneficial relationships and collectively respecting and caring for the land.
Indigenous Rights & Education
The Ministry of Education’s Indigenous Education Strategy (2016) outlines provincial priorities regarding Indigenous Education in Ontario and the Ontario First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Policy Framework (2007) for prioritizing Indigenous student achievement.
The Halton District School Board (HDSB) is committed to reconciliation by protecting and upholding Inherent, Indigenous and Human Rights as outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. (HDSB Indigenous Education Policy)
The HDSB is committed to continuous knowledge building with respect to substantive reconciliation. One of the commitments of the HDSB Multi-Year Strategic Plan is Indigenous Rights & Education.
One of the Halton District School Board’s commitments to Truth and Reconciliation is recognizing the land and territory of Indigenous Peoples in the Halton Region.
Acknowledgement of the Land and Territory
The HDSB welcomes families to share in the voluntary and confidential self-identification process. The process helps identify and address barriers experienced by Indigenous students and families and supports the ongoing improvement of Indigenous education programs within the HDSB.
Indigenous Education Council (IEC)
As mandated by the Ministry of Education, the HDSB Indigenous Education Council exists to assist the Board in matters of Indigenous Student Achievement, well-being and Indigenous Education. The IEC supports the Board through shared understanding, collaboration and informed decision-making in Indigenous education.
Contact Us
Brent Coakwell
Tel: 905-631-6120
Ext.3324
Gabriela Echeverria
Tel: 905-631-6120
Ext. 4325
The Indigenous Rights and Education Team
The Halton District School Board is focused on supporting Indigenous students and families toward student achievement. The Team can be easily accessed by connecting with the school. Please note, the process of self-identification with the school board is completely voluntary and those who choose not to self-identify are still able to access the support of the Indigenous Rights and Education Team. If you choose to self-identify for a family/kin member, you can either contact your school or a member of the HDSB Indigenous Rights and Education Team:
System Principal - Gabriela Echeverria (echeverriag@hdsb.ca)
Indigenous Education Lead - Karie Hanson (hansonk@hdsb.ca)
Instructional Program Lead - Rob Rooksby (rooksbyr@hdsb.ca)
Instructional Program Lead - Tracy O’Connell (oconnellt@hdsb.ca)
Student Support Coordinator - Tanya Vardy (vardyt@hdsb.ca)