First photo is of an Indigenous knowledge keeper showing students how to traditionally prepare a fire during camping trip. Second photo is of a student pointing to a quilt collage created by Special Education Department students of their artwork of Indigenous peoples and cultures. Third photo is of the orange Every Child Matters flag flying on a TCDSB school flagpole, along with the Canada flag.

Meet Our Team

Connect with the Indigenous Education Team to learn more about our programs, supports, resources and opportunities for Indigenous students, staff and school communities. We are here to listen, support and help you connect with the resources you need.

Andre O’Bonsawin 

Head of Indigenous Affairs 

Andre.Obonsawin@tcdsb.org  

Andre is Abenaki, a member of Odanak First Nation. He leads and supports Indigenous Education across all 198 schools, supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, guided by the Tree of Life Indigenous Education Framework.

Andre works closely with TCDSB leadership and Education Council, supports Principals and teachers through presentations and professional development, and builds relationships that strengthen collaboration between schools and Knowledge Keepers.

Andre is a 2026 Indspire Laureate in Indigenous Education, recognized nationally for his contributions to the field. He previously served as Director of Indigenous Initiatives and Board of Governors member at Algonquin College, where he built lasting programming for all learners. 

Sonya Charal 

Elementary/Intermediate Resource Teacher 

Sonya.Charal@tcdsb.org  

Amanda Jean Davison 

Elementary/Intermediate Facilitator 

AmandaJean.Davison@tcdsb.org  

Laryssa Gorecki 

Secondary Facilitator 

Laryssa.Gorecki@tcdsb.org  

Jason Donio 

Cultural Liaison 

Jason.Donio@tcdsb.org  

Sarah Morrissette 

Indigenous Student Engagement Specialist 

Sarah.Morrissette@tcdsb.org  

Sarah Morrissette is a Red River Métis woman from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and a citizen of the Manitoba Métis Federation.  As the Indigenous Student Engagement Specialist Sarah’s role includes supporting Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) students and families from kindergarten to grade 12. Her role includes student engagement, family outreach, system navigation, advocacy, program development, and connecting students, families, and staff with Indigenous Education resources, opportunities, and supports. 

Whether you are a parent, student, or TCDSB staff member, support is available to help you navigate programs, services, and opportunities within the TCDSB and beyond. 

Kayla McDougall 

Indigenous Student Engagement Coordinator 

Kayla.McDougall@tcdsb.org  

The Indigenous Student coordinator is available to all self-identified Indigenous students (First Nations, Metis, Inuit) in grades K-12, our coordinator provides tailored, one-on-one support to help your child succeed. Whether your student needs cultural connection, academic guidance, emotional and social support, or an advocate in their corner, we are here to walk alongside your family. 

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