We encourage students with First Nations, Métis and Inuit ancestry to voluntarily self-identify. Proof of ancestry is not required. By self-identifying, you help to monitor the success of the programs and services we offer and help identify ways we support the success of Indigenous students in our schools.
Parents and guardians of students (under the age of 18 years) or students (18 years and older) with First Nation, Métis and Inuit ancestry can self-identify by completing the form below.
Online Voluntary, Confidential Self-Identification Form
Indigenous Graduation Coaches (IGC) support self-identified First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students’ overall well-being, cultural journey, and academic success while students work toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. IGCs work alongside the Indigenous Education Team to support Indigenous students’ spirit, heart, mind, and body. Additionally, IGCs promote Indigenous visibility within the schools and the classroom, leading cultural content.
An IGC visits students in schools to provide access to culture. IGCs provide mentorship, advocacy, leadership opportunities, the promotion of Indigenous excellence, and they can recommend community connections.
Learn more about Indigenous Graduation Coaches at Durham Catholic District School Board and meet the Indigenous Graduation Coaches below:
My name is Ben Marshall and I am a mixed-ancestry Anishinaabae from Wasauksing First Nation. I grew up as an urban Indigenous and graduated from the York Region Catholic School system but was very lucky to spend my summers running around my community. My summers were filled with learning the plants and animals that co-habituated alongside us and where we fit in with Shakakmi-kwe (Mother Earth). I have worn many different hats already from working as a paramedic, a pest control professional, and many ecological surveys and projects.
Contact: benjamin.marshall@dcdsb.ca
Hello! My name is Angeni (pronounced like Ann-Jenny), and I am mixed-ancestry Algonquin Anishinaabe, Scottish and English. My family historically comes from Pikwakanagan First Nation, but I grew up in a place called Penetanguishene. Previously, my work involved researching, developing, and facilitating workshops that discussed the complex history of colonization in Canada, and how to empower non-Indigenous individuals to engage with that history in way that fosters good relations. A poet, musician and lover of stories, I try to weave my culture into my work as often as I can.
Contact: angeni.lovelady@dcdsb.ca
Please see the following post-secondary supports available for Indigenous students: