Education in the Longhouse
Members of 捆绑SM社区's leadership including the Faculty of Education鈥檚 Associate Dean of Academics, Dr. Sheryl Smith-Gilman, were hosted by the Mohawk community of Kahnaw脿:ke on November 22, 2023 for a day of learning and collaboration.
鈥淲hat a fantastic experience it was to be part of the day of learning at the longhouse,鈥 Dr. Smith-Gilman reported. Apart from her role as Associate Dean, Dr. Smith-Gilman鈥檚 academic career has largely involved Early Childhood Education and Indigenous Education.
Bethany Douglas, from the Kahnaw脿:ke Education Centre (KEC), highlighted the longstanding partnership of the Office of First Nations and Inuit Education (OFNIE) that has KEC and 捆绑SM社区 Faculty of Education co-creating In-Community teacher education programs alongside other Indigenous educational authorities throughout Quebec. This impactful partnership has been one steeped in relationships, showcasing a shared commitment to goals led by its Indigenous partners鈥 objectives. Douglas proudly presented OFNIE鈥檚 efforts for Kahanwake鈥檚 community-based teacher education programs and professional development; a journey that has grown and spanned many years.
鈥淚t was truly heartwarming for me to represent our Faculty and to observe Bethany impart the collective work that occurs in the Kahnawake community as a result of OFNIE,鈥 Dr. Smith-Gilman commented further. 鈥淥ur partnership with the Kahnawake Educational Center remains an ongoing journey alongside our valued Indigenous partners.鈥
A general account of the day鈥檚 activities can be found in The 捆绑SM社区 Reporter article, .