Key Takeaways:
- Bill Montgomery, an Indigenous Education System Help Teacher with the Upper Canada District School Board, has received national recognition.
- For his long-standing involvement in connecting students and staff with Indigenous culture, traditions, and teachings.
Montgomery was recently awarded the Indspire Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Education Leadership Award. The national award honors educators who have made significant contributions to community-based education while keeping Indigenous knowledge principles.
Montgomery, a Haida Gwaii First Nation member in British Columbia, has served on the school board for the past decade. Over 300 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students in the UCDSB iLead (Indigenous Leadership Program), which promotes Indigenous culture reclamation, recognise his leadership qualities. In addition, educators benefit from Bill’s leadership, as he promotes the inclusion of Indigenous themes in the curriculum.
“It was extremely humbling to learn that I had been chosen for this award,” he said. “It would not have been a consideration without the incredible people I have the privilege of working with daily.” But, as we frequently emphasize, it’s all about relationships and community.”
Montgomery received the award on Nov. 25 at a virtual ceremony attended by UCDSB colleague Nancy Clow, who spoke about his impact on our schools.
“He has a special talent for bringing Indigenous education learning to life, making it relevant and meaningful.” Bill’s ability to present complex concepts using simple language and impactful images or activities is outstanding. “He teaches with passion and patience, sharing his personal experiences and gift of story,” Clow said. “His quiet wisdom and guidance help all on the path of reconciliation.”
He expresses gratitude for the Upper Canada District School Board’s always open and positive stance on Indigenous education and hopes that his job will be obsolete one day.
“This expansion is bringing us closer to a personal goal I’d like to see realised: that people in my role are considered redundant or obsolete,” Montgomery said.
“We are building such an incredible network of collaborators within our field, and it would be fantastic to see it become self-sustaining and as commonplace as any other subject matter we provide to our students.”
Source: seaway News
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