Holistic Approach to Indigenous Education

The Story of the Holistic Approach to Indigenous Education

The Holistic Approach to Indigenous Education was developed by the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Indigenous Education Department in November 2021. It was partially inspired by the Holistic Cycle of Learning and What Matters in Indigenous Education.

We are in the East, preparing the soil. We begin by addressing our gaps in knowing and understanding as educators.

What do you know about the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples? What do you need to learn next?
What conditions are required for staff and students to learn about Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, culture, and history?
When do you practice seeing the ways you've always done things through a new lens?

Diagram of KPR Holistic Approach to Indigenous Education

To Begin

Before entering the circle, review and reflect on the Principles of Indigenous Education.Always enter in the East.

Sometimes you may need to return to the start.

Go slow to go fast.

Diagram of KPR Holistic Approach to Indigenous Education

To Continue

Each part of the circle requires ample time and attention.

Connect with the Indigenous Education Department along the way.

This is a process to reflect on your learning (not something you need to teach others). Invite the Indigenous Education Department to join your staff to lead the learning.

Part of the work in the East includes actively engaging in the Passport to Reconciliation.

Holistic Cycle of Learning

The Holistic Cycle of Learning was developed by the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Indigenous Education Department to lead learning in the Grade 11 NBE course.

Diagram of Holistic Cycle of Learning

Creating Environments for Indigenous Youth to Live and Succeed

Contact Us

Colleen Honey
Executive Assistant to Superintendent of Education: Student Achievement, Indigenous Education
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
1994 Fisher Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 6X6
Phone: 705-742-9773 x2602
Toll-Free: 1-877-741-4577
Send email to Colleen Honey

James Brake
Superintendent of Education: Student Achievement, Indigenous Education
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
1994 Fisher Drive
Peterborough, ON K9J 6X6
Phone: 705-742-9773 x2602
Toll-Free: 1-877-741-4577
Send email to Superintendent of Education