TERRACE BAY—Indigenous Trustee, Paul Cormier describes his role as the Chair of the Indigenous Education Committee, and the significant role of the Indigenous Trustee for Superior-Greenstone District School Board, (SGDSB).
The Indigenous Trustee is elected by the First Nations communities within the school district. The Indigenous Trustee represents and shares the voice of communities, Indigenous perspectives and supports collaboration for the improvement of education.
According to Cormier, the primary role of the Indigenous Trustee is, “To look our for and honour the rights and privileges of the Indigenous people in relation to education,” stated Cormier. “When we operate in a traditional way, I try to chair it in a way so that the communities are really welcome there and that we are listening to them when they are bringing forth ideas,” added Cormier.
He highlights the fact that during these meetings as chair he sometimes lets the discussion go, without filtering them, to ensure that they feel that they are being heard and being listened to.
Cormier also spoke about the new trends in Indigenous education, noting that it is bringing to the fore front Indigenous ways of “being-doing-and learning”. Cormier also believes that those ways can benefit all children.
“I think if we embrace and include Indigenous perspective in the education system, what happens is that it becomes a system for all children,” believes Cormier.
He wants to be the voice of Indigenous communities in a collaborative way. “As an Indigenous Trustee you need to have the community’s support and believe in you which he believes comes through the Chiefs and their own Directors of Education." stated Cormier.
Cormier added that it is often easier to identify problems and concerns but it becomes more difficult ot offer solutions. “I see my role in that as bringing forth solutions from the community,” stated Cormier.
He concluded his description of the role of an Indigenous Trustee by reminding the community that traditionally the Indigenous perspective and views were not considered but today, they have that opportunity as an elected trustee, to be that voice.
