Durham Catholic District School Board is Implementing a New Grade 11 English: Understanding Contemporary Indigenous Voices Course

Posted On Tuesday June 09, 2020

June 9, 2020 – In recognition of Indigenous History Month, the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) in partnership with its Indigenous Education Advisory Circle is pleased to announce changes to Grade 11 English courses at all of its secondary schools. Beginning September 2020, students in Grade 11 will take an English: Contemporary Indigenous Voices course in place of the mandatory Grade 11 English credit.

“The new English courses entitled English: Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices reflects the Board’s commitment to Indigenous Education,” said Janice Oldman, Chair of the Board. “The new English courses are in line with provincial and federal priorities as recommended by Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.” 

The new credit program fulfills the mandatory Grade 11 English requirement for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and are recognized by all post-secondary institutions. 

“We are excited to offer this innovative program that will increase the diversity of literature and world views studied by our students,” stated Tracy Barill, Director of Education. “In preparation for this new English curriculum, our educators and community partners have been working to identify superior resources and course materials that will enhance students’ opportunities to explore and reflect upon contemporary Indigenous voices.”

The new English courses will feature the works of Indigenous authors such as Jesse Thistle, Drew Hayden Taylor, Eden Robinson, Waubgeshig Rice, David Robertson, Richard Wagamese and Lee Maracle. Content will be delivered in an innovative and modern mixed media format, provide students with experiential learning from an Indigenous perspective which is essential to responsible and productive citizenship. The course will also use documents such as The Truth and Reconciliation’s Calls to Action and deconstruct the Indian Act to build students’ capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. 

“The new courses will increase students’ understanding and knowledge of Indigenous culture, history and perspectives,” added Melanie O’Neill, Member of DCDSB’s Indigenous Education Advisory Circle. “Students will benefit from new approaches to teaching and learning that will continue to promote creativity and critical thinking skills.”