b'EDUCATIONvarious programs and services to support lifelong learning for all of their community members, instituting the philosophy of Anishinaabeg education as a foundational piece to delivering Strengtheningprograms. They offer post-secondary learning opportunities, which are community-based and done in partnership with colleges and universities. Our Ties Michelle Taukei serves as the dean of Student Wellness and Services at Kenjgewin Teg, supporting and managing the education and academic paths of close to 80 students. Weve reduced the CN strives to develop respectfulnumber of people who are in our facilities at any given time. A lot of our programs have gone to a 100-per-cent virtual platform, she and mutually beneficialsays. The challenge, adds Roy, is recognizing that the north and relationships with all Aboriginalthe south have different technological opportunities that are avail-able based on your IT infrastructure. I think that was a reality, but peoples, cultivating economichaving said that, weve certainly been able to work with what we opportunities together. have and do those adjustments as need be. Kenjgewin Teg has remained committed to the land-based portion of their students learning. Were trying to be very innova-tive in still being able to provide that service to our students, Taukei explains. Kenjgewin Teg has become known in our local area as a provider regarding cultural knowledge, the acquisition and transfer of the knowledge of language, so this year weve taken that to a virtual platform. In doing so, they have increased the number of opportunities for students to meet virtually with knowledge keepers and language carriers. The students come together in a circle setting with an Elder who will carry a teaching for anywhere from two to three hours. [This virtual platform] is giving students a safe place to enter into Anishinaabic culture and a greater under-standing of practice in a softer way, Taukei adds. Students can participate, they can voice their feedback and their stories. Some students at this point are just choosing to listen, and they say that its a great experience for them. First Nations programs and schools continue to face obstacles in their quest to adapt to new learning strategies that keep their students and community members connected and safe throughout the pandemic. However, Taukei notes, I think that what this has done has pushed us to realize how much we need to digitalize our language and culture curriculum. After all, this push to broaden our understanding of how we learn together while apart may become part of the new normal. Roy puts it best in saying, cn.ca/aboriginalvision While weve traditionally been in-person and land-based learning in person, I think this has provided additional insight into how we can accommodate learning opportunities no matter where our students are within Manitoulin or the province.28l I ssue2 2020/21C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne'