Education

Local Teachers Develop Indigenous History Curriculum

Educators in the TDSB are collaborating with Indigenous leaders to create more inclusive and accurate lesson plans.

June 24, 2025 at 10:48 — By By Horizon Tribune Editorial Team

Educators across Toronto are taking a bold step toward reconciliation and inclusivity by developing a new Indigenous history curriculum in collaboration with local First Nations leaders. The initiative, led by a task force within the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), aims to provide students with a more accurate and meaningful understanding of Canada’s Indigenous heritage.

The project is a response to long-standing calls from Indigenous communities and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to revise outdated and Eurocentric narratives in Canadian education. Teachers involved in the pilot say it’s not just about adding lessons — it’s about changing the lens through which history is taught.

Elders, knowledge keepers, and Indigenous educators from several Nations — including Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Métis — have contributed stories, language components, and cultural practices that are now integrated into classroom materials. Students are learning about treaties, land stewardship, and residential school legacies directly from community voices.

Grade 8 teacher Malcolm Ford said the shift has been eye-opening for both staff and students. 'We’re moving away from teaching Indigenous peoples as historical footnotes. Now, we emphasize their living cultures, contemporary leaders, and critical role in shaping our society.'

New teaching resources include land-based learning activities, oral storytelling sessions, and classroom visits from community guests. The curriculum also features contemporary Indigenous artists, activists, and scientists to illustrate the richness and diversity of Indigenous contributions.

The initiative has received widespread support from parents and community leaders. TDSB officials say they plan to expand the program to high schools and offer professional development for teachers seeking to deepen their understanding of Indigenous perspectives.

As the curriculum rolls out, organizers stress that this is only the beginning. 'Reconciliation is a journey, not a checklist,' said curriculum advisor Autumn Clearwater. 'But in education, we plant the seeds — and this is a powerful start.'