Our History

In the 2016/2017 school year, faculty members within the School of Education collaborated to create a three-year action plan with a central focus on deepening their understanding of Indigenous Perspectives. With growing awareness about the important works of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the introduction of new teaching quality standards, it was decided to establish an annual conference tailored for School of Education students.

These conferences have traditionally revolved around specific themes, such as "Walking and Learning Together," "Literacy," and "Indigenous Cultures." In past conferences, we have had the privilege of hosting keynote speakers such as Dr. Martin Brokenleg, Roy and Judy Louis, and Beverly Keeshig-Soonias. Additionally, the conferences have included breakout sessions conducted by Red Deer Public School District Indigenous Services, the Red Deer District Museum, the Red Deer Native Friendship Centre, and local community members. These sessions have provided students with the opportunity to explore historical artifacts, engage in Indigenous games, examine the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and participate in authentic learning experiences such as the Blanket Exercise and Smudging Ceremony.

Over the years, the conference has evolved, and committee members have actively collaborated with RDP Indigenous Initiatives and the Education Undergraduate Society. As time has passed, student leaders have increasingly assumed a more significant role in the conference's organization to the extent that, today, the conference is entirely managed by our student body through the Education Undergraduate Society.