Indigenous Education in School District No. 64 (Gulf Islands) is dedicated to supporting the success of Indigenous learners in our school district, as well as promoting a deep awareness of Indigenous culture and history among all students.
Thanks to our sponsors this year!
Our Youth on the Land Jr (SIMS) and Sr (GISS) took place this year as a result of several groups generous donations:
- Healthy Schools BC Regional Grants,
- Community Initiative grant (British Columbia Responsible and Problem Gambling program)
- Salt Spring Island Foundation
- New Relationship Trust: BC First Nation Youth grant initiative
Explore our Video and Photo Stories
Notable Indigenous Education Resource Links:
- SD64 Teaching Animals Cheat Sheet
- SD64 InED Dept
- BCTF Aboriginal Education
- Ministry of Education Indigenous Ed resources
- FNESC (First Nations Education Steering Committee) Teacher Resources
- SD79 Hul’q’umi’num’ Teacher resources and language lessons
- Strong Nations Bookstore Nanaimo
Meet our amazing team.
Shannon Johnston
Principal
Deeply proud of her Cree & Irish roots Shannon is the Indigenous Education Principal in SD64. As a life long learner and outdoor enthusiast, the First Peoples Principals of Learning align closely with her passions and values as district coordinator, principal, middle years eco teacher and member of a close knit family.
Quentin Harris
Artist, Educator
I am of Secwepemc descent, born Neskonlith, raised in Maple Ridge (where I honed my craft of being a cultural teacher) and now being refined into island life on Salt Spring. It has been a privilege and a pleasure being part of the energy, community, and team at SD64.
Hy c’h qu!
Visit Quentin’s YouTube Channel
Carol Arnold
Educator, Facilitator
Gulf Islands Secondary School First Nations/Social Studies Teacher and Provincial BCTF Aboriginal Education Facilitator
Janise Browning
My ancestors came from Africa, Europe, and Turtle Island (Ojibway and Erie). I am grateful to live in Coast Salish territory, where my children were born. I am the Local Contact for Aboriginal Education for the Gulf Islands Teachers’ Association.
Cheryl Ruff
District Indigenous Support Worker
Cheryl Ruff is from Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. Cheryl’s heritage is Scottish and Indigenous. Coming to the Coast Salish Territory (Gulf Islands) with her husband and daughter, Cheryl is extremely grateful to the Coast Salish People who continue to use and steward these lands, as it allows for her to connect with her Indigenous Culture and the Coast Indigenous Culture. As an Indigenous person (and momma to an Indigenous child), Cheryl is a strong advocate for supporting Indigenous youth as they connect with and share their ancestry; as well as creating a space for them to walk their own path.
