June 8, 2026 – Brantford
In partnership with the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board, the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA) hosted a three‑day Indigenous Education Conference grounded in the theme Rooted in Relationships. The gathering brought together educators, leaders and community partners from across Ontario to deepen understanding, strengthen connections and advance Indigenous education within Catholic schools.
The conference invited participants to learn from the land and Indigenous knowledge holders, providing the experience of education beyond the classroom. Through keynote presentations and on‑the‑land experiences, participants were encouraged to reflect on their role in fostering respectful relationships with Indigenous communities, cultures and ways of knowing.
“We were honoured to gather and learn alongside Six Nations of the Grand River and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation,” said Kevin Greco, Superintendent of Education. “Rooted in Relationships reflects our commitment to building respectful relationships through listening, learning and reconciliation. Through speakers, land‑based learning and visits to sites such as the Woodland Cultural Centre and the Mohawk Institute Residential School, participants deepened their understanding of truth, resilience and Indigenous ways of knowing.”
“We are grateful to the Survivors, Elders, Knowledge Keepers and community partners who guide this work. Our hope is that participants leave inspired to create learning environments where Indigenous voices and perspectives are meaningfully honoured.”
Participants had the opportunity to hear from an inspiring group of speakers, including Amy Bomberry, Dallas Squire, Amos Key Jr., Pauly Sias, and Elder Eric G. Martin. Each speaker brought a unique perspective rooted in lived experience, culture, language, and leadership, offering powerful insights into identity, community, and the importance of relational learning.
The conference also included experiential learning visits to significant cultural and educational sites, including the Woodland Cultural Centre and the Mohawk Institute Residential School, Kayanase Greenhouse, and Chiefswood Park. These experiences were designed to deepen understanding of history, truth, sustainability, and the enduring strength of Indigenous communities.
Grounded in Catholic values and a commitment to truth and reconciliation, the conference provided a meaningful space for participants to listen, learn, and grow together. Attendees left with a renewed sense of responsibility and purpose, equipped to nurture relationships that honour Indigenous voices and support student success in authentic and transformative ways.
BHNCDSB Planning Committee
(L-R): Cecilia Arva; System Teacher, Tanya Gardner; Executive Assistant, Sandra Braga; Indigenous Education Curriculum Consultant, Kevin Greco; Superintendent of Education, Lori Skye; Indigenous Education Lead, Lindsay Martin; Indigenous Advisor: Student Support and Engagement
MEDIA RELEASE CONTACT
Tracey Austin | Manager of Communications and Community Relations
Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board
Email: communications@bhncdsb.ca
