A banner made of four photos. The first photo shows artwork by students recognizing Orange Shirt Day. The second photo shows an Indigenous knowledge keeper showing students how to traditionally prepare a fire during camping trip. The third photo shows red dresses hanging on a fence honouring and remembering all missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people. The fourth photo shows a presentation by the Equity Department at the CEC in collaboration with the Special Education Department, showing a collage of student artwork of Indigenous peoples and culture.

Indigenous Education

Voluntary Self-Identification for Indigenous Students

Why is it Important to Self-Identify?

When a student identifies as Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit and/or Métis, the Toronto Catholic District School Board's (TCDSB) Indigenous Education Department can more appropriately understand and support their cultural, learning, and well-being needs.

TCDSB actively looks for ways to celebrate and honour Indigenous identity, and this form is one of the many ways to ensure students feel recognized, supported, and connected to resources and the wider Indigenous community at their school and the Board.

Sharing this information also allows the Indigenous Education Department plan and share resources so that Indigenous students and families can more easily take part in:

  • Cultural workshops and hands-on learning

  • Guest speakers sharing stories and knowledge

  • Community events that foster belonging

  • Land-based learning experience

  • Indigenous Student Leadership / Mentorship opportunities.

All TCDSB students in Grades K to 12 are welcome to Self-Identify.

How to Self-Identify

For more information on Indigenous Self-Identification, and to access the form please use the following Self-Identification Form.

Self-Identification Form
TCDSB Self-Identification poster, showing at the top the word "Welcome" in the many languages of this territory and the nations in the TCDSB community. Next is a photo of Indigenous artwork such as a beadwork feather and painted rocks. Below is the text: Indigenous Student Self-Identification - Voluntary. Confidential. Honours Your Identity. Below this are the program details and a QR code at the bottom.