tan’si,
Congratulations to the students, staff and families as we complete the 2020-2021 school year!
This has been a year like no other, with many changes for students and families to adapt to as we closed and reopened schools and moved to online learning when required.
I’m pleased to say that, despite these challenges, there are many successes for KTCEA schools and communities to celebrate at the end of this school year:

• Students participated in school-based or virtual land-based learning and Cree language challenges and fine arts programming like the Bannock Making Challenge and Hip-Hop dance classes.
• Our Curriculum and Instruction branch developed and implemented the KTCEA Common Consistent Curriculum (K-6). This will ensure all schools will promote and preserve Cree culture, language and traditions so that students will be proud of who they are.
• Curriculum and Instruction specialists continued to develop resources to support Cree language and culture and land-based learning across all subject areas.
• Student Services introduced a wellness line and mental health videos to promote students, staff and community members’ mental health during COVID-19.
• To build capacity and address teacher retention, KTCEA is supporting current staff to complete their master’s degrees at the University of Alberta and supporting CILLDI participants in the Aboriginal Teacher Education Program. We will also be working with KTCEA staff interested in beginning teacher education programs part time.
• Capital Services ensured student and staff safety with COVID-19 measures in schools and busses. We also completed repairs and upgrades to teacherages and are working with each Nation on plans for new teacherages in 2021-2022,
• KTCEA board met regularly and provided guidance for our first Community Report, development of a radio program and a KTCEA outreach school which will start in September 2021.
• Most importantly, KTCEA schools have 26 students completing high school, which is remarkable during a year impacted by COVID-19.

Thank you to all KTCEA staff, teachers, families, leadership and board members for your hard work for KTCEA students and this years’ high school graduates.
I hope all students will stay active this summer, continue to learn, spend time outside on the land or at camp, read some good books and enjoy the break. The first day of school for students next year will be September 7, 2021.
I look forward to seeing you all in the fall.
 
ekosi,
Dr. Daphne Mai’Stoina
Superintendent
 
otacimowin onîkânîw kiskinohamâkîw okimâskwîw (final) - signed