As Lambton Kent District School Board prepares to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the board is spotlighting Gretchen Sands-Gamble, whose commitment to Indigenous language revitalization, student belonging and cultural learning is making an impact across its schools.
For Gretchen, language is more than words. It is connection, identity, culture and community.
In her role as an Indigenous Language Teacher, Gretchen works alongside students and staff to create spaces where Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe) is visible, valued and celebrated. Her approach is rooted in the belief that all students should feel a sense of belonging while learning about the rich histories, cultures and languages that are an important part of the region.
“In my class and in my school, I hope that students take away the feeling that they belong,” she said.
That philosophy extends beyond the classroom. At her school, Ojibwe language can be heard throughout the day, including in daily announcements and conversations among students. Seeing students confidently greet her in Anishinaabemowin when they meet in the community is one of the most rewarding parts of her work.
“I want all students to know that the Ojibwe language has an important and valuable place in our school community.”
Gretchen’s own language journey began through family, community and relationships. Growing up, she heard Ojibwe spoken within her family and community in Bkejwanong (Walpole Island), though opportunities to learn the language within the education system were non-existent. Years later, watching her daughter learn Ojibwe in school sparked something powerful.
She recalls hearing her son ask his sister, “Talk Ojibwe to me, Sunny.” That simple and heartfelt moment would eventually inspire a story that has now grown into a published children’s book.
This fall, Gretchen will celebrate the release of Counting Bugs / Aambe Gindaasdaa Mnidooshag, a board book for young readers that follows siblings as they explore their grandparents’ yard while counting bugs together in Ojibwe.
The story began as an entry in an Indigenous writing competition. Although it did not win, the submission caught the attention of a publisher, which saw its potential to help introduce young children and families to the Ojibwe language in an engaging and accessible way.
While the book is an exciting milestone, Gretchen sees it as part of a much larger purpose.
“We all have stories within us. These stories are what make us who we are. Everyone should take risks and share these stories with others.”
Gretchen’s background in the arts also influences her teaching. Whether through painting, music, sewing, storytelling or writing, she encourages students to connect creativity with language learning and to draw inspiration from their own experiences, relationships and communities.
Although she is now teaching Ojibwe, Gretchen is quick to describe herself as a learner as well.
“I am learning alongside my students and take direction and support from the community.”
Counting Bugs / Aambe Gindaasdaa Mnidooshag will be released on Oct. 6 and can be pre-ordered through local bookstores, including Turns & Tales and The Book Keeper. The Book Keeper in Sarnia will also host a public book launch on Oct. 17.
