Shalen Fox of John Paul II Collegiate hopes the school’s new display can inspire the next generation of indigenous students both at the high school and in the community. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

JPII Collegiate Display

Local teacher shines light on indigenous graduates success

Feb 25, 2021 | 4:22 PM

A Grade 11 and 12 teacher in North Battleford is recognizing indigenous success stories from recent graduates.

Shalen Fox of John Paul II Collegiate (JPII) is the mind behind the school’s new display in the front lobby area featuring the names and faces of a number of former First Nations students who are now making a difference in their community and the surrounding area through various career paths.

Fox hopes the project can serve as a positive message to help inspire indigenous youth at the high school, and show them what is possible through hard work and dedication.

“I just wanted to have our indigenous students be able to see themselves in these different career paths if they continue to go with education,” Fox said. “It’s important too to show the successes of indigenous kids in our school, just to combat any stereotypes that may be out there. So this is a positive thing for everyone.”

Fox said it’s important to celebrate those making a positive impact in the community. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

BDO Debt Solutions

Deck the Halls Without Breaking the Bank: Tips for a Budget-Friendly Holiday

15h ago

strong reputation

North Battleford wins gold in provincial volleyball championship

16h ago

POSTAL STRIKE IMPACT

Chamber reaction: Postal strike in rural Sask. sparks concerns for businesses and holiday shipping

17h ago

The write-up beneath each person’s picture featured is a transcript that includes stories of perseverance over obstacles they were able to overcome, their personal role models and the impact they had, and how they balance their culture within their profession.

Fox said he has been overwhelmed by the community’s positive response to the idea. Shortly after he began reaching out to people he knew in the community about taking part in the project, others started contacting him as well to share their stories too.

The diversity of careers has also been a real positive in Fox’s eyes, as it shows a wide range of what is possible for students uncertain about what the future may hold.

“We have pharmacists, teachers, and RCMP, social workers, dentists, and more. So there’s a variety of different careers so our kids can see themselves like the local role models,” Fox said.

To date, the display in the front of the school features 34 profiles. It is a number Fox hopes will only continue to grow moving forward.

“It’s honestly good just to see lots of our alumni here still in the Battlefords and to hear about all of their success here,” he said. “It’s great for our school and for our community, just to see the pride of our community and the family and friends and people connected within it.”

—

Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1