The Lambton Kent District School Board is marking National Indigenous Languages Day by highlighting progress in Indigenous language revitalization and outlining next steps in expanding access for students across the district.
At a recent board meeting, trustees received an update on Indigenous language learning initiatives, including a presentation from Indigenous lead Dallas Sinopole and elementary Indigenous language teacher Jessie Plain. The presentation demonstrated how students are progressing from learning isolated vocabulary to forming full sentences and engaging in authentic conversation in Anishinaabemowin, supported by a digital language-learning app released in January 2026.
Trustees also heard about development of a Lenape language app, which is scheduled to launch in September 2026 as part of a phased, community-led approach to language revitalization.
During the discussion, trustees noted the potential to expand Indigenous language learning across subjects. Student trustee Bressette said, “It would be great to see this used in subjects like Math and Science—having the language fully immersed into all areas of study.”
The Anishinaabemowin app marks a significant step in the board’s efforts to provide culturally relevant and responsive education, particularly for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students. The initiative is supported by partnerships with four First Nation communities: Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Eelunaapeewi Lahkeewiit (Delaware Nation), Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and Walpole Island First Nation.
These partnerships help guide programming through ongoing consultation, ensuring that community priorities and language revitalization goals remain central to decision-making.
National Indigenous Languages Day highlights the importance of preserving and strengthening Indigenous languages, as emphasized in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which affirm the rights of Indigenous peoples to speak, learn and pass on their languages.
“This is not just language. It is customs, it is culture, it is identity,” said Sinopole. “When students know their identity, they soar in all areas. This is Student Success.”
The Anishinaabemowin app includes 30 instructional units designed to build proficiency over time, incorporating vocabulary, listening and reading comprehension, writing activities and assessments. The board worked with Anishinaabe language speakers from local First Nation communities to ensure linguistic accuracy and cultural integrity, with all audio components recorded by community members.
Following its launch, training was provided to Indigenous language teachers and staff to support implementation in classrooms. The app is now being used in Anishinaabemowin as a Second Language classes across the district and is open to all students.
As Sinopole told trustees, “Everyone should know Anishinaabemowin. There is no benefit to gatekeeping a language. This is for all.”
Work on the Lenape language app is continuing in collaboration with Eelunaapeewi Lahkeewiit, with plans for a September launch that will expand access to additional Indigenous language learning opportunities.
The board says the initiative aligns with its long-term commitments through its Indigenous education action planning, which includes dedicated funding for language revitalization and the development of comprehensive learning resources.
Trustees expressed strong support for the work, pointing to its role in strengthening partnerships, advancing reconciliation and ensuring Indigenous languages remain part of everyday learning for future generations.
