Newly Launched by COPA:
Joining the Circle: An Educator’s Toolkit to Support First Nations, Métis and Inuit Students

Joining the Circle is the result of a journey that shares wisdom and guidance from First Nations, Métis and Inuit Elders, educators, community partners, parents, families and caregivers so that together we may strengthen support for Indigenous children and their families in schools. Building relationships, knowledge and awareness of Indigenous realities, histories, cultures and perspectives can be explored together.

This multimedia resource, including 10 animated short films in several Indigenous languages, French, English and close-captioned, offers an introduction to reflect on topics such as pride and identity; understanding racism and discrimination against First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples; building and strengthening relationships with Indigenous students and families; and nurturing safe and healthy schools and communities where everyone is safe, strong, and free.

Joining the Circle multimedia toolkit was designed to support safe, strong and free schools. This original resource was created by COPA in partnership with the Ontario Teachers’ Federation through a grassroots approach in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit families and community leaders, and educators. The project is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Topics for discussion and reflection include pride and identity, understanding racism and discrimination, building and strengthening relationships with families and nurturing safe and healthy schools and communities.

First Nations, Métis and Inuit Elders who guided COPA, introduce the project and share the meaning and beauty of the circle and Joining the Circle.