‘The purpose of this handbook is to help teaching staff increase their awareness and
understanding of cultural protocols when it comes to inviting and including Elders in their work.
With the new curriculum, the implementation of the recommendations and Calls to Action
from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and an increased understanding of
the importance of Traditional Knowledge, it is essential that we include Elders on this journey.
With good intentions and respectful practice, this work will take us far. The protocols outlined
in this handbook are to be observed as best practices for including Elders.
Although this guide was primarily developed with Elders in mind, many of these practices can
be considered with inviting other community members and guests, Traditional Knowledge
Keepers, to your school.’