A year after the inspiring Shannen’s Dream Day of Action at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Elementary School, the message of reconciliation and advocacy for Indigenous education continues to grow. This year, the students at St. Kateri CES played a pivotal mentorship role in helping their peers at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Elementary School run their own Shannen's Dream Day of Action, a day dedicated to honouring Shannen Koostachin’s dream for equitable education for all Indigenous students.
The relationship between mentors St. Kateri’s ReconciliACTION team, led by Mrs. Gregotski, and mentees from Sacred Heart’s Grade 4/5 class with Miss. Pasquale, had the students come together in solidarity and take on leadership roles in promoting justice and reconciliation. Ms. Ottolino, Indigenous Education, Truth and Reconciliation Consultant, played a foundational role between the two schools in guiding their efforts. This collaboration between schools was more than a mentorship—it was a movement. Guided by the wisdom and compassion of their mentors, Sacred Heart students participated in meaningful inquiry, designed engaging stations, and led the entire school through a day of reflection, education, and action. Many of the students built lasting friendships through this experience, deepening the connection between the two school communities.
The day began with a student-led assembly that set a tone of unity and hope. The Epinigishima Anangokaa group shared beautiful drumming and singing, grounding the day in Indigenous culture and reminding students of the importance of ceremony and tradition in reconciliation.
Students wore blue to honour Shannen’s legacy, and donations collected went directly to the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society to support ongoing advocacy for safe and equitable education for Indigenous children across Canada.
Throughout the day, students led various learning stations that encouraged the entire Sacred Heart community to reflect and take action:
• Station 1: Spirit Bear Video on Shannen’s Dream – introducing the story of Shannen Koostachin and her dream for safe and comfy schools.
• Station 2: Letter Writing to All Levels of Government – students wrote heartfelt letters to municipal, provincial, and federal leaders advocating for justice and equity.
• Station 3: Blooket and Kahoot Trivia – fun and interactive quizzes helped reinforce knowledge about Shannen’s Dream and Indigenous education issues.
• Station 4: Schools Are a Place to Dream – students reflected on what they want to be when they grow up and the kinds of schools that would help them get there.
• Station 5: Planting Station with Kayanase Nursery – students planted red acorn trees and native wildflowers, learning from Kayanase staff about the cultural and ecological significance of native species.
• Station 6: Exploring Indigenous Books with Mrs. Richardson – Sacred Heart’s teacher-librarian led students through a collection of stories by Indigenous authors to spark reflection and understanding.
• Station 7: Exploring Traditional Medicines with Ms. Ottolino – with the help and knowledge of Ms. Ottolino, students explored the use and importance of traditional Indigenous medicines.
Even the youngest learners participated. Sacred Heart’s Kindergarten classes led their own mini day of action, with developmentally appropriate stations to learn about Shannen’s Dream through storytelling, art, and song.
Miss. Pasquale explained that the day was powerful because it was led by the students themselves. “From the questions they asked, to the activities they designed, to the way they taught others and with the guidance of their St. Kateri mentors, Sacred Heart students took ownership of their learning and turned it into meaningful action. It was inspiring to see them inquire, create, and lead with such purpose. This is what reconciliation in education looks like.”
ReconciliACTION team lead at St. Kateri, Mrs. Gregotski, reflected on the deeper meaning of the mentorship. “Watching our students become mentors was incredibly moving. They stepped up with empathy and confidence, and helped shape a day that empowered Sacred Heart students to use their voices. They didn’t just pass on information—they passed on purpose.”
Students from both schools shared how much the day meant to them. “It felt really good to teach others about something that matters,” said Skyler. Ben added, “Helping the Grade 4s and 5s made me feel like a leader.” Holden shared, “The students from St. Kateri were very nice and helped us make a better Shannen’s Dream Day.” Daxton said, “It was fun getting to take pictures and document our day to share with others.” Ellie replied, “It made me want to do more things like this and actually make a difference,” and Emmett shared, “I liked that we could be part of something bigger than just our school.”
Through this act of reconciliACTION, students lived out the values of the Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board and honoured the spirit of St. Kateri Tekakwitha—a woman of strength, compassion, and courage. Like her, the students showed what it means to lead with heart and to act with faith.
Shannen’s Dream lives on through them. This Day of Action wasn’t just a one-time event—it was a milestone in an ongoing journey of learning, unlearning, and standing in solidarity. Through leadership, community partnerships, and a deepening understanding of truth and reconciliation, students at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Elementary School showed that they aren’t waiting for change—they are the change.
