As a mother beamed with pride, she shared how her child, once shy and hesitant, had grown braver after participating in the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board’s Summer Indigenous Transition Program. This is just one of many success stories from a program that empowers Indigenous students for high school by connecting them to their culture.

Now in its third year in Sault Ste. Marie, the program expanded for the first time to three additional communities: Blind River, Elliot Lake, Wawa. Students from these areas experienced a mix of traditional teachings and engaging activities. Relationships were built between First Nation and Métis communities through the sharing of knowledge and cultural teachings. The program fostered a deep sense of connection, ensuring that students were not only prepared for high school but proud of their heritage.

The program combines Indigenous cultural teachings with fun, hands-on activities to help students in Gr. 5 – 8 feel more confident and prepared as they transition into high school. The focus is not just academic—it’s about building identity, resilience, and pride.

Through the support and teachings from the Seven Grandfathers, powwow traditions, the Métis Nation of Ontario, Garden River First Nation, Serpent River First Nation, Mississaugi First Nation and Michipicoten First Nation, students learn values of respect, love, bravery and humility, which help guide them through life’s challenges.

Each community has its own unique delivery of the program. In Wawa, students made Indian tacos, baked cookies, painted rocks with cultural teachings, and enjoyed wilderness canoe paddling and survival adventures.

“I ran into a student’s family at the beach, and the mom told me how her child had become so much braver after the program. She was so proud—and so she should be,” shared Racheal Glover, Indigenous Transitions Coach. This simple moment highlights the deep impact the program can have on students’ personal growth.

A robust team of transition and graduation coaches, along with cultural resource workers, provided unique opportunities for students to engage with their culture on both land and water. The relationships continued beyond the summer, with the team supporting four Back-to-School clinics in Garden River, Batchewana, Mississaugi, and Serpent River, strengthening community ties.

Parents have witnessed their children become more courageous and self-assured, taking on tasks and responsibilities they once avoided.

If you are interested in this opportunity for your child, please an Indigenous Transitions Coach.

Give your child the opportunity to strengthen their identity and prepare for their future with confidence!