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Teaching a Global Perspective: Routes to Our Roots

7/17/2019

Educated at the University of Winnipeg and armed with degrees in Environmental Studies & Cultural Geography and Sociology & Philosophy, Carlos began his career as a teacher at Sagkeeng Anicinabe High School in Sagkeeng First Nation, 120 miles north of Winnipeg.

Today Carlos is a member of the RHA family. He is the Director of Information Technology at the school, having worked for 25 years as an IT specialist in schools.

He also shares his experiences with our grade 3 social studies class in a program called Routes to our Roots. Through the lens of identity and citizenship, students study the origins, history, wisdom and traditions of our First Nations.

Students listen in rapt attention as Carlos explains the hundreds of tribes that make up the First Nations people and the nuances of treaties versus traditional boundaries. Most of all, the kids love Carlos’ stories about his reserve. They have a favorite.

“Sagkeeng and Winnipeg are separated by a river,“ Carlos tells the children,“ and for a long time the only way to leave the reserve was

by canoe. It was a treacherous and sometimes deadly trip.”

“What did they do?“ two of the students asked, almost in unison.

“My grandfather was a First Nations Chief,” Carlos continues. “Together with others on the reserve, he led the charge to build a road. People could get food now. And they could have access to materials that would help them build their homes and their communities. The road changed the lives of the people.”

The children love the ending. Migwetch, Carlos. (Thank you.)

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