Mar. 19, 2025
The CBE Board of Trustees has chosen the Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY) initiative as the CBE nominee for the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) Friends of Education Award. This award honours individuals or organizations who have demonstrated commitment to improving and contributing to education in Alberta.
USAY is a leader in how schools integrate Indigenous culture, knowledge, and values into the classroom. The initiative is empowering Indigenous youth through an innovative mix of cultural learning, mentorship, and cutting-edge technology, fostering a sense of identity and pride.
A few of the standout programs that USAY has partnered with CBE’s Indigenous Education Team to create include:
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Spirit Pathways: Indigenous Youth Empowerment program, aimed at building cultural pride and empowering students in Grades 7 to 12 through cultural activities such as drumming, beading, and language learning
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Medicine Wheel Warriors, which blends traditional Indigenous teachings with modern technology, providing young students at Piitoayis Family School and the Niitsitapi Learning Centre opportunity to explore the significance of the Medicine Wheel with guidance from community Elders
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IndigiTRAILS, which uses augmented reality and GPS technology to create interactive, educational trails, have made waves in the community with concepts deeply rooted in Indigenous culture
“USAY’s holistic approach benefits the students it directly serves as well as the broader Calgary community, building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples,” said Patricia Bolger, Chair, CBE Board of Trustees. “USAY’s tireless advocacy for Indigenous youth and their dedication to breaking down barriers - whether financial, educational, or cultural - has had a profound and lasting impact on schools and students alike.”
USAY offers insights into Indigenous history, culture, and contemporary issues. Through this nomination, the Board of Trustees is highlighting how, with the help of organizations like USAY, educators create inclusive, supportive environments where Indigenous youth can thrive.
Congratulations on this nomination Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth and for making a difference for CBE students!
