National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2026

Posted on 09/15/2026

Throughout the school year, KCDSB students participate in cultural and land-based learning opportunities that deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, perspectives and ways of knowing. From Pow Wows and traditional feasts to Northern Studies and other learning experiences, students have opportunities to learn through culture, community and connection to the land.

These experiences help build understanding and respect for First Nations and Métis Peoples and reinforce that truth and reconciliation extend beyond September 30. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important time for reflection, while learning, relationship-building and reconciliation continue throughout the year at KCDSB.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On September 30, we join communities across Canada in observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a time to honour the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and to reflect on the lasting impacts of the residential school system.

As a Catholic school community, we recognize our responsibility to listen, learn and deepen our understanding of First Nations, Métis and Inuit histories, cultures and perspectives. Through continued learning, reflection and meaningful action, we remain committed to strengthening relationships and advancing reconciliation together.

Every Staff and Student Gets an Orange Shirt

Students, staff and families are encouraged to wear orange on September 30 for Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Wearing orange honours Phyllis Webstad’s story and shows our commitment to remembering the children affected by the residential school system, honouring Survivors and recognizing the lasting impacts on families and communities.

KCDSB is proud to provide all new students and staff with an orange T-shirt featuring a design created by KCDSB graduate Kitana Blackhawk. The design was created especially for KCDSB and continues to be worn across our school communities as part of our learning and commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

To learn more about the artist and t-shirt design, click her e.

What's Happening Across KCDSB

Our Commitment to Reconciliation

Reconciliation is an ongoing responsibility that extends beyond a single day. At KCDSB, we are committed to advancing truth and reconciliation through learning, relationships and meaningful action throughout the year.

Ongoing Learning
We support continued professional learning that strengthens staff knowledge and understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, perspectives, residential schools, treaties and reconciliation.

Learning in Our Classrooms
Indigenous histories, cultures, perspectives and contributions are an important part of student learning. Through the Ontario curriculum and locally relevant learning opportunities, students are encouraged to deepen their understanding of the histories and contemporary experiences of Indigenous Peoples and the responsibilities we share in advancing reconciliation.

Building Meaningful Relationships
We are committed to building and nurturing respectful, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous students, families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, communities and partners. Through listening, learning and working together, we strive to create learning environments where Indigenous identities, cultures, histories and contributions are respected, valued and reflected.

Reconciliation requires continued learning, reflection and action. We remain committed to this work as we move forward together.

Join Us

As we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we invite students, staff, families and the entire KCDSB community to take time to reflect, learn and listen.

Together, we honour the children who never returned home, Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and recognize our shared responsibility to continue the work of reconciliation.

Through learning, reflection and meaningful action, each of us can help foster greater understanding, respect and stronger relationships as we move forward together.

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