Saskatoon Public Schools is pleased to welcome the inaugural members of its newly established Indigenous Advisory Committee. Members of the committee will act as advisors to Trustees, working to ensure the voices, perspectives, and interests of Indigenous peoples are integrated into the practices, policies, and initiatives of Saskatoon Public Schools.
The inaugural members are as follows:
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Evelyn Johnston: Evelyn, a retired critical care nurse of Métis descent, has dedicated her life to advancing Métis culture and education. She is an active member of Métis Local 165 and the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI), where she uses her voice to champion Métis education and cultural preservation. Evelyn was instrumental in establishing an annual Michif Language Camp for educators.
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Mika Lafond: Mika, originally from the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, is a dedicated educator and writer deeply rooted in Indigenous culture. She is a graduate of the Indian Teacher Education Program (ITEP) and holds an MFA in Writing. Mika is a current mentor and instructor in the University of Saskatchewan's ITEP Program where she empowers future educators to incorporate Indigenous perspectives and knowledge systems.
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Wilfred Burton: Wilfred is a proud Michif man originally from Midnight Lake, Saskatchewan. He is a retired educator with a wealth of teaching experience spanning elementary to post-secondary levels. He has earned undergraduate degrees in Education and the Arts, as well as a graduate degree in Education. Wilfred has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing his Michif/Métis culture through education and culture.
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Lyndon J. Linklater: Lyndon, a member of the Thunderchild First Nation (Plains Cree), is a traditional knowledge keeper and storyteller with an educational background in social work, Indigenous Studies, and law. He is the current Indigenous Relations Advisor for the Remai Modern Art Gallery, where he offers guidance on culturally enriching programming. Lyndon is the longest-serving member of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner's Speakers' Bureau - a role he's held since 2000.
