Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022
The healing process continues following vandalism at Parry Sound High School Shapatuan
Following two incidents of vandalism at the Shapatuan (teaching lodge) at Parry Sound High School in the spring, Near North District School Board (NNDSB) First Nations Trustee Nichole King filed a notice of motion seeking Board support for an updated report about the actions taken and next steps. The update is to be presented to the Board in open session and available to the public.
The Shapatuan is a culturally responsive and relevant learning space for youth, who were devastated by the vandalism. Trustee King is monitoring the progress of rebuilding the Shapatuan as well as the continuation of the relationship-building between the board and school and the First Nations communities affected by the racist acts. Her notice of motion is on behalf of First Nations rightsholders so the communities and the Board can be apprised of the next steps in the students’ healing process and the work of NNDSB.
Trustee King, Board Chair Jay Aspin and Director of Education Craig Myles were three of several delegates at a sharing circle hosted by Wasauksing First Nation in August, and this notice of motion is part of the on-going work of relationship-building.
Chair Aspin said, “This relationship with First Nations communities as well as the healing process of our students are extremely important to our board. NNDSB appreciates the guidance of communities, the youth leadership and their families as well as dedicated staff in this situation.”
Director of Education Myles said he is “grateful for the leadership of Trustee King as the board strives for improved relationships with First Nations rightsholders and the Indigenous students who attend NNDSB schools.”
The notice of motion was placed on the agenda of October’s committee-of-the-whole meeting and approved at the Oct. 11 Board meeting.
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Deb Bartlett
Communications Officer
Near North District School Board
(705) 472-8170, extension 5010
