Indigenous Student Trustee

The Superior-Greenstone District School Board (SGDSB) is proud to announce the appointment of Anna Kentner, a student at Lake Superior High School, as the board's first Indigenous Student Trustee. This newly created role is a testament to the board's commitment to fostering inclusivity, student leadership, and amplifying Indigenous voices within its schools.

 

Anna has been an active member of the Indigenous Youth Council (IYC) since its inception in 2020. The IYC serves as a dynamic platform for Indigenous students to engage in leadership activities, share their perspectives, and advocate for bringing learning through an Indigenous lens to schools across the district. Anna's leadership skills and dedication have earned her this historic position, where she will collaborate with current Student Trustees Zoey Krause from Lake Superior High School and Miley from Marathon High School.

 

This role is part of the SGDSB's Multi-Year Strategic Plan, which emphasizes the development of young leaders through initiatives such as the Student Senate, Indigenous Youth Council, and Student Trustee program. Student Trustees serve staggered two-year terms, ensuring continuity and mentorship within the board.

 

SGDSB Board Chair Pinky McRae stated that "we are committed to fostering a learning environment where respect, understanding, and inclusion are at the core of all we do. This appointment marks another step forward in ensuring all voices are heard as we strive to create spaces where every student feels valued and empowered to lead."

 

Shy-Anne Bartlett, Manager of Indigenous Education, expressed her enthusiasm for Anna's appointment and noted that "the Indigenous Youth Council (IYC) proudly elected Anna as their first leader, marking a pivotal moment for Indigenous student leadership in our district.  We are thrilled to collaborate with Anna as she brings her remarkable leadership skills, passion, and vision to this groundbreaking role.  Her appointment reflects the ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, as we work together to amplify Indigenous voices and create lasting change. Anna is setting a powerful precedent for this role, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps and strive for meaningful progress."

 

Anna shared her excitement and goals for her term as Indigenous Student Trustee stating that,  "I'm excited to step into a new chapter of my life and do my best to inspire students to take their shot at leadership. I'm committed to advocating for Indigenous students and bringing awareness to their goals and aspirations.  I'm very grateful for this opportunity and hope to make a lasting impact on the school board."

 

The introduction of the Indigenous Student Trustee role builds on the success of the Indigenous Youth Council. Established in 2020, the IYC has grown into a powerful voice for Indigenous students, driving meaningful change and strengthening connections across the SGDSB community. The first election for this role marks a significant milestone in the board's efforts to embed equity, inclusion, and diversity in its policies and practices.

 

The SGDSB remains dedicated to providing platforms that empower students, ensuring they play an active role in shaping their educational experience.  By addressing barriers to success and amplifying voices that have historically been underrepresented, the board continues to create spaces where every individual feels included, valued, and fulfilled.

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