Our children are our most precious resource
Our children are our medicine
Our children are our future leaders
Chief Marilyn Gabriel
On Tuesday May 17 2014, we held a very special ceremony to unveil a carved plaque presented by the Langley School Board symbolizing our district’s commitment to reconciliation. This was an important and honourable event attended by members of our community and some members of our LSS community including students and staff who have been on a learning journey around Truth and Reconciliation.
“The Langley School District recognizes that while the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is now finished, our work has just begun. We have a rare second chance to seize a lots opportunity for reconciliation.”
Board Chairperson, Rob McFarlane.
Please click here to see the video of the ceremony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrFs33cWsW0&index=7&list=PLyXYRPr4AO_TFtr3eqEtZx48XsfHC24L5
ABOUT OUR ABORIGINAL PROGRAM AT LSS
Approximately 85 students make up the Aboriginal populace at Langley Secondary. The Aboriginal program invites all who self-identify as having Aboriginal ancestry to join. There is no proof or identity card required to participate. Danielle Smith (danielle.smith@sd35.bc.ca), the full-time Aboriginal support worker at LSS, provides support that may be helpful for the cultural, emotional, physical, and intellectual needs of students with Aboriginal ancestry. This service works in cooperation with the support already in place at LSS-not to replace it. Please see the front office for a consultation form if you’d like to join.
Cultural Presentations: Over the past year there have been several cultural enrichment presentations at LSS. All students are invited to attend this one block presentation on a voluntary basis. Presentations can range from soap-stone carving, making bannock, Metis cultural activities, to learning about the historical impact of Residential schools.
Leadership Conference: This past November, four students were able to attend a two-day “Strengthening the Circle” leadership conference at Newland’s, organized by the Siya:ye Yoyes. Grade 9-12 students in attendance at this conference were able to take a number of self-discovery workshops on peer pressure, relationships, the role of Elders and what makes a good leader.
Career Fairs: Aboriginal career fairs are typically held at Langley Secondary School where the students have the opportunity to learn and ask questions with various Post-Secondary institutions and career recruiters. Last year we attended a one-day conference at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey campus. This type of post-secondary discovery will be happening again this year.
Aboriginal Math & Science help: Our school also has an Aboriginal math and science teacher who is able to assist all Aboriginal students in these subject areas. If you have any concerns or questions about these subjects, please contact Mr. Coleman.
Family Gatherings: The Aboriginal program puts on Aboriginal Family gatherings for all of our Aboriginal families in the Langley school district. Don’t miss our Christmas Gathering in December, our Healthy Balance Gathering in February, and our annual BBQ on Aboriginal day in June.
Grade 7/8 Transitions Conference: In early April, three students will travel to Newland’s to meet next year’s grade 9′s. These representatives from Langley Secondary will meet and greet their new younger buddies. Last year, there were over 20 students from the LSS feeder schools ready to hear about life as a “Saint.”
Aboriginal Achievement Awards: LSS Aboriginal students will be nominated to receive awards in various categories. This award banquet is held during the evening to honour our well-deserved students.
Hot Dog Days: Ms. Smith likes to have hot dog days throughout the school year. This serves as an opportunity for Aboriginal students to meet each other and to connect in a positive, safe environment over food.