Comox Valley Schools mark Truth and Reconciliation Week with learning, reflection, and action
For the past week, Comox Valley Schools has been honouring Truth and Reconciliation Week with learning and reflection across classrooms and schoolyards. Guided by our Strategic Plan and our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and to Decolonizing and Indigenizing teaching and learning, schools have centred student voice, place based learning, and meaningful actions that build understanding and community. Today, in advance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation tomorrow, many schools are continuing with assemblies, circles, songs, and class activities.
Across the district, students and staff are learning through story, song, art, and conversation. At École Puntledge Park, older students examined the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action while primary learners listened to Phyllis’ story and created small orange shirt keychains as a reminder of care and remembrance. Brooklyn students gathered in class talking circles to share what they know and what they wonder, preparing for deeper conversations. Courtenay Elementary used a large Canada map and orange stickers to help students visualize the 150,000 children who attended residential schools. Arden welcomed students past a bright orange heart at the entrance and carried that spirit into read alouds and art in classrooms. Denman Island students read local histories, shared gratitude from the school garden, and created “I matter because I am” art that now brightens their spaces.
Other schools added learning in ways that reflect their communities. At École Robb Road, students prepared a Spirit Walk display by creating orange hearts and sharing actions of reconciliation, while classes explored stories, poetry, and articles matched to student readiness. Huband students reflected on Truth and Reconciliation and prepared orange ribbons and buttons to ensure all students could participate. On Hornby Island, learners discussed what holds us up after reading You Hold Me Up, explored Borders by Thomas King, and considered reconciliactions for the year. Nala’atsi continued daily circle check ins, land based learning, and identity affirming practices that honour each student. Aspen deepened class lessons and set up a Story Walk, with reflection circles planned for later today. Valley View hosted a Story Walk with Go Show the World and gathered for a mid morning assembly with student reflections. Royston formed a large school circle on the field for remarks, drumming, and quiet reflection, before continuing with class activities. NIDES FAE connected nature learning to everyday acts of care, inviting students to wear orange, create paper shirts with messages, and tie ribbons into a fabric heart as a personal commitment to reconciliation.
These are only a few examples. Many more classrooms are engaging in age appropriate lessons connected to local histories and the Calls to Action, strengthening relationships with knowledge keepers and community partners, and finding thoughtful ways for students to lead. Together, these activities reflect our Strategic Plan in action and our shared responsibility to learn the truth, listen with care, and act in community.
Schools are closed tomorrow, Tuesday, September 30, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. We encourage students, families, and community members to join the Comox Valley Spirit Walk at 10:00 a.m., walking together from Harmston Park down 5th Street to Lewis Park. All are welcome to walk in orange shirts, ribbon skirts, moccasins, or other meaningful attire as we honour survivors, families, and the children who never came home.
