CRPS to Honour National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

As the leaves turn and the air crisps, Canadian Rockies Public Schools (CRPS) is preparing for a solemn milestone on our calendar. This season, we're not just welcoming fall; we're welcoming a season of reflection and learning as we approach the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.

In CRPS, our vision speaks to creating a better world through transformational education that celebrates nature, diversity and well-being. This can only happen when we embrace the truth about our history, even when it's uncomfortable. The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is more than just dates on the calendar. They're days for us to come together as a community, acknowledging the past wrongs done to Indigenous peoples, particularly children who were sent to residential schools – many who now live on Stoney Nakoda lands.

Think of our schools as a metaphorical garden, nourished by the hearts and minds of our students and staff. How can we expect to cultivate an environment of true learning and growth without addressing the roots? These roots dig deep into the soil of our nation's history, and it's our responsibility to tend to them with care and truthfulness.

This year, CRPS’ Orange Shirt Day, or "daguskâbind ne wobarbichench" in Stoney, will be celebrated on Friday, Sept. 29, providing a unique opportunity for all of us, from Kindergarten to Grade 12, to wear an orange shirt. It's a simple yet powerful gesture, signifying that "Every Child Matters." On this day, we'll engage in activities and conversations that foster a physically and emotionally safe and secure learning environment. These conversations are necessary for creating an educational space where "the needs of students are recognized and come first."

And then, on Sept. 30, as many of us gather with our families, let's take a moment to remember the significance of the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Let it be a day of quiet reflection but also active learning—perhaps reading stories or watching films that deepen our understanding of Indigenous history and culture.

In this journey of reflection and learning, we can't walk alone. Parents, your participation is crucial. Discuss the significance of these days with your children, attend virtual assemblies or events we host, and let's create an atmosphere of mutual respect and support.

By honouring these important days, CRPS aspires to be more than a collection of schools. We aim to be a community where every individual—regardless of their background—feels seen, heard, and valued. After all, only through acknowledging the past can we pave a pathway for a more inclusive and honest future.