Treaty Education in schools creates opportunities for students to learn about the Mi’kmaq, their inherent Aboriginal and Treaty rights, and our shared history. It promotes an understanding of the Peace and Friendship treaties as historical and living documents.
In January, 2015 Nova Scotia’s Action Plan for Education committed to incorporate Treaty Education into public school curriculum and programming at all grade levels.
Professional development began in June 2016 for elementary school music teachers. In September 2016, the Mi’kmaw drum program began in most elementary schools in Nova Scotia. Students learn the Mi’kmaq Honour Song and the importance of the drum in Mi’kmaw culture. Ongoing work includes a curriculum project on Indian Residential Schools targeted for elementary grades and the addition of Treaty Education into the P-12 curriculum.
Here’s more information on Nova Scotia’s Treaty Education program: novascotia.ca/treaty-education
To view the complete Treaty Education Framework, please click here.