Niagara Wheatfield - Every Child Matters- Θkawirathá·ʔnyeʔ Thwé·ʔn Yurihuwà·nę.

Achieving Joy and Mastery in Public Schools

In this episode, we spoke with Daniel Ljiljanich, Superintendent of the Niagara Wheatfield Central School District. We were also joined by Jennifer Golias, Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Technology, and Alexandra “Zan” Printup, a Tuscarora Culture Teacher at the Tuscarora Nation Elementary School. Together, they shared powerful stories of empowerment as they guide students in appreciating and preserving the culture and language of the Tuscarora Nation.

Our conversation also explored the district-wide initiative known as Orange Shirt Day. Observed on September 30th, this day serves as a significant acknowledgment of the impact the residential school system had on Indigenous communities. Orange Shirt Day promotes reconciliation, cultural revitalization, language acquisition, and ongoing historical education. It centers on the belief that Every Child Matters.

This important work is inspired by the story of Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor whose orange shirt—gifted to her by her grandmother—was taken from her on her first day of school. Each year, members of the school community wear orange shirts to show their support and participate in educational events, ceremonies, and activities that honor survivors and their families.

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