It is with profound sadness that our district is marking the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children, found on the property of the Residential School in Kamloops. Over the weekend we have been speaking with our Elder and Knowledge Keepers to ensure we could support our staff and community in an appropriate manner. Flags at all of our schools and the board office have been lowered to half-mast and staff around the district are wearing orange shirts in memory of the 215 stolen lives and the ongoing trauma that the residential school system has had on Indigenous people across Canada.
Schools are using this discovery as a moment to speak to the truth of the residential school system and help students further understand their own journeys towards reconciliation.
We also have several supports in place for students, staff, and families who are affected by this event.
If you or someone you know is experiencing trauma as a result of this discovery and the ongoing news coverage, there is help. Find a full list of community resources and support here.