Sep. 01, 2015
Elizabeth Gouthro works with a student from Piitoayis Family School.
Elizabeth Gouthro, a learning director with the CBE, has been selected to receive a Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Educator Award in the category of Partner in Indigenous Education. This prestigious national award recognizes and celebrates outstanding educators for having innovative teaching practices; advocating for updated resources and more cultural teachings in the curriculum; and helping Indigenous students reach their full potential.
Elizabeth is a non-Indigenous educator who has made valuable contributions to community-based Indigenous education and who honours the principles of Indigenous knowledge. She was nominated for her support of Piitoayis Family School over the last five years, her contributions to the establishment of our Elder Advisory Council and new Aboriginal Learning Centre, and her commitment to learning through her relationships with Elders, CBE staff, the Aboriginal community, ceremonies, and celebrations.
Blackfoot Elder Randy Bottle says Elizabeth is a visionary leader who is always willing to promote and advocate for Aboriginal awareness in schools.
“As a result of her commitment to the Aboriginal community, Elizabeth formed the Elder Advisory Council which I am honoured to be a part of. Elizabeth is always excited to learn about our culture and has shown tremendous respect for it. Through her efforts, there is a new Aboriginal Learning Centre being constructed in the near future. Elizabeth is a true champion and gives Aboriginal people a voice in Calgary in the most respectful way.”
“Elizabeth Gouthro is an extended member of our Indigenous family,” said Lori Pritchard, supervisor, Aboriginal education at the CBE. “Her courage, advocacy, and influence as a leader in the CBE is leading to a shift in our work with all of our students, staff and families to one that is inclusive of Indigenous ways of knowing, Indigenous voice, and works to reconcile the profound legacy of harm that occurred by way of the residential school system.”
Elizabeth will be honoured at a gala that will be held in conjunction with the annual Indspire National Gathering for Indigenous Education, being held in Calgary at the Telus Convention Centre on Nov. 13-14, 2015.
Please visit the 2015 Guiding the Journey: Indigenous Educator Awards website for more information about the awards.
