May. 30, 2021
Sent on behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Calgary Board of Education
Dear parents and guardians
The Calgary Board of Education joins Canadians across the country in honouring the lives lost at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. We encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the lives of these children and their families.
In response to the tragedy, flags at Calgary Board of Education schools and buildings will be lowered to half-mast starting Monday, May 31 until Friday, June 4.
Staff and students are encouraged to wear an orange shirt next week to show solidarity with residential school survivors and help send the message that every child matters. More information about the history of Orange Shirt Day and the significance of the orange shirt can found on the official website.
We continue to support the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action as part of the CBE’s system Indigenous Education Holistic Lifelong Learning Framework.
The CBE acknowledges the words of Murray Sinclair, Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: “Education is how we will heal, teaching our children that we are all equal is how we will stop racism and bring about reconciliation.”
Survivors of the Indian Residential School system can get support through the 24/7 crisis line (1-866-925-4419), and additional support is available through the Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868). Support is available to CBE employees through Homewood Health (1-800-663-1142).
Sincerely,
Board of Trustees
Calgary Board of Education
