Native Learning Centre East's Mission Statement
The Native Learning Centre - East is an alternative high school for First Nations, Metis and Inuit students ages 15-21 that, in partnership with Native Child and Family Services of Toronto, integrates traditional Native cultural teachings into the day-to-day learning environment. Students work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma under the guidance of teachers while taking advantage of a cultural program that is offered through community partnerships.
The NLC-E offers continuous intake for students who self-identify as indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) and are between the ages of 15-20. The NLC-E offers courses from Grades 9-12 at all program levels.
VISION STATEMENT
The Native Learning Centre is an alternative program for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Students. It is a program that encourages cultural flexibility. It brings together western and traditional teachings to help engage, empower, and motivate our students. We use the collective wisdom of Elders, traditional teachings, community, and culture to empower our youth to take pride in their heritage in the educational environment. We strive to keep traditions and teachings alive and strong for future generations.
More Information About Native Learning Centre East
Wellness Based Education : Medicine Wheel Model
The medicine wheel symbolises the interconnection of all life, the various cycles of nature, and how life represents a circular journey. Each direction represents spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical aspects of life. This holistic approach to teaching addresses the whole student and creates balance, increases self-awareness and student academic and personal success.
THE FOUR DIRECTIONS OF THE MEDICINE WHEEL
The East – Yellow – Revealing the Spiritual
Tobacco connects us to the spirit world. Tobacco can be used to thank the Creator and carries our prayers to the spiritual world.
The South – Red – Relating to the Emotional
Cedar is used for purification and to attract positive energy.
The West – Black– Responding to the Physical Body by doing
Sage is used for conferring strength and wisdom, clarity and purpose. It drives away negative energy.
North – White – Reflecting with our Mind
Sweetgrass is kindness. When sweetgrass is walked on it does not break but releases a sweet fragrance. Injustice can be returned by kindness.
Nutrition Program
The NLC-E offers a Nutrition Program which provides breakfast and lunches.
Students gain life skills in the planning and preparation of healthy meals on a budget. Students are encouraged to practice healthy eating habits by following the Indigenous Canadian Food Guide while planning and preparing meals both at home and school.
Facilities
- Full kitchen,
- Classroom technology,
- Access to full-sized gyms and equipment, weight room and pool.
Building Life Skills
A focus of the NLC-E is to ensure achieve academic success and are prepared for the challenges of daily life. We provide opportunities for job readiness training with workshops for certifications in First Aid and CPR, WHIMIS, and Food Handlers. We also provide support in acquiring summer employment with community partners.
Additional Features
- Traditional Crafts
- Experiential Learning
- Guest Speakers
- Hands-on Workshops
- Aboriginal Themed Book Collecttion
- Frequent Excursions
Student Life - Where You Belong
GO TEAM
Students become part of an indigenous-centred community where they are valued and encouraged to discover their identity. Together, we motivate one another to strive to our greatest potential and to achieve our personal goals. Every member of our community is responsible for building a safe and welcoming learning environment that inspires creative thinking. As a student of the Native Learning Centre East, one would have the opportunity to connect with a wide range of learning, leisure, and support services. Through our native culture we focus ourselves on success at the Native Learning Centre East.
WHAT SETS US APART
In a small classroom setting, instruction is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of each student. Our teachers differentiate instruction and offer authentic and relevant opportunities for learning while integrating an Aboriginally-infused, cross-curricular focus into the provincially mandated curriculum. The NLC East offers Grade 9 -12 instruction in all compulsory courses required for an OSSD diploma; in addition it also provides co-op opportunities, nutrition and social science courses, as well as a comprehensive physical education program. French, grade 10 History and grade 9 Art are substituted for Ojibway language (Anishnaabemowin) and Native Studies courses. Housed within Sir Wilfrid Laurier C.I., NLC East students also have the opportunity to bridge their studies between the two schools if they are interested in specialized classes not offered in the NLC, or if they would like to participate in clubs or teams. In this flexible, wellness-based learning environment students are empowered partners in their own education.
PARENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The NLC – East offers opportunities for students to participate in cultural activities and ceremonies. Glen Rouge Provincial Park is home to our community partners’ cultural retreat and sweat lodge. Students are encouraged to join and learn many of the traditional teachings surrounding protocol and ceremony. The NLC-E is proud to work in partnership with the following community groups: Miziwe Biik, Anishnawbe Health Toronto, Toronto Public Health, Ontario College of Art and Design, University of Toronto, Centenniel College to name a few.
Paul Martin Aboriginal Education Initiative
East Metro Youth Services
Store Front
Scarborough East Pow Wow Community