Once you actively engage First Nations students in School District 53, it’s not hard to see their talents, according to English teacher Sarah Chobotar.
The educator at Similkameen Elementary Secondary School recently gave a presentation to the district’s Education Committee on engaging aboriginal learners.
Chobotar talked about the challenge of making school meaningful and practical for First Nations students. (In her English 12 class, 40 per cent of the students are identified as First Nations.)
Chobotar noted the importance of allowing aboriginal students to explore their identity.
She acknowledged the good work that educators are doing in Okanagan Falls Elementary and Tuc-el-Nuit Elementary in Oliver.
She said one “little guy” is learning the alphabet by associating the letters with the names of his family members.
Chobotar mentioned two of her students’ affinity for hip hop culture, borne out of social injustice.
“It is giving them the opportunity to explore the spoken word.”
The teacher said these students have created a rap song about residential schools and their impact.
“I’m excited. It’s the first time they completed a (school) project on time,” Chobotar said.
She also noted that one of her First Nations students is a very talented graffiti artist.
The teacher pointed out they are increasing engagement by providing students with different ways of learning.
“They are showing a depth of knowledge that I didn’t know existed.”
She said certain kids struggle academically, but their social/emotional competency is very high.
She noted that one student is pushing to be a writer, while another is showing strength in working with children in daycare.
Chobotar talked about one interesting project where students built gingerbread houses. Two particular boys with behavioural issues were overseeing a group that put the candies inside the houses instead of outside the edible structures.
By Lyonel Doherty
