In this episode of Hello-Kwey: Let’s Talk Education, we had the privilege of speaking with Rebekah Goertzen, Inclusive Education Consultant at Central Quebec School Board and member of the Anishinaabe Nation. Our conversation centred around meaningful approaches to Truth and Reconciliation in Education—moving beyond performative gestures on September 30th toward authentic, year-round engagement with Indigenous perspectives and communities.
Rebekah discussed the complexities of observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Quebec schools. Unlike other provinces, where this day is a recognized holiday, Quebec schools remain open, creating a challenging dynamic, especially as September 30th is also attendance day. Rebekah emphasized that educators should look beyond this single day and consider how they can integrate Indigenous perspectives throughout the school year—in classroom materials, wall displays, and teaching activities. This long-term commitment creates more meaningful impact.
For educators seeking to incorporate Indigenous perspectives year-round, Rebekah highlighted several valuable resources. One of these is the Downie & Wenjack Foundation’s Legacy Schools program, which provides comprehensive kits that include books, flags, lesson plans, and a calendar marking significant days for Indigenous communities. Every teacher can individually register for these resources. Rebekah also recommended Voices from the Land (Les voix du territoire), which contains information and resources from the eleven Indigenous nations. These tools enable teachers to move beyond focusing solely on trauma narratives to celebrating Indigenous cultures, arts, languages, and perspectives—essential aspects of true reconciliation.
During our discussion, Rebekah also described an impactful cultural exchange project that took place at the Central Quebec School Board in the spring of 2025. Students from three English high schools in Quebec City visited a Jimmy Sandy Memorial School in Kawawachikamach for an immersive four-day experience. The visiting students participated in Naskapi language and culture classes, read to younger children, and spent time learning from elders on the land. This initiative intentionally moved beyond the transactional relationships often seen in school settings, where Indigenous people are brought in for one-time presentations, to foster genuine connections between students.
Our conversation concluded with important reflections on Indigenous student success. Drawing from her master’s research, Rebekah highlighted how strengthening cultural identity and language connections correlates with improved student outcomes across multiple life dimensions. She prompted listeners to reflect on how educational systems still force Indigenous students to assimilate to European norms and standards.
True progress demands we decolonize our approaches. It requires more than symbolic gestures—it means ensuring Indigenous students are reflected in every aspect of school life, from curriculum and materials to the very architecture of our schools. This conversation gives educators the resources and frameworks to turn that vision into a meaningful, tangible reality.
Interested in the free Truth and Reconciliation course that Rebekah and Drew Wapachee McDougall created? Visit the LEARN Moodle platform for more information!
You can tune in to the full episode below. You’ll also find it on more popular podcast platforms.
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