The restrictions with Covid-19 has challenged many educators to think outside the box for most everything in the classroom including curriculum and instruction. Spurred by a middle year teacher’s request, SRPSD’s Indigenous Perspectives consultant and coaches have facilitated “connecting and learning in a new way” with community Elder Liz Settee.
Hour long weekly Microsoft Teams live streaming sessions with Elder Liz have been well received by grade 5 – 8 teachers throughout SRPSD. On average 25 classes participated each week in November, which equates to approximately 400 students benefitting from Elder Liz’s teachings each week. The grade 5 – 8 topics included harvesting, smudging and traditional medicines, medicine wheel teachings and intergenerational effects of residential schools. At the end of each session, students had the opportunity to ask questions and because it was live streamed, their questions were answered immediately as Elder Liz was able to and those that were not answered were addressed the following week. Through humour and heartfelt stories, Elder Liz connected with the students and has been invited by many who participated to visit their classrooms in person when restrictions are lifted.
“Connecting and learning in a new way” through live streaming with Elders will continue throughout the year as plans are being made to invite different grade bands each month.