Shane Pointe Appointed VSB Knowledge Keeper/Elder in Residence
The Vancouver School District (VSB) is pleased to announce Musqueam Elder Shane Pointe as the District's first Knowledge Keeper/Elder in Residence.
As a respected Elder, Pointe will be working with District staff in an advisory capacity, supporting the goals of the District's Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement, as well as building and strengthening relations between the VSB family and local Aboriginal communities.
Shane Pointe has a background in counselling and from an early age has been trained in Musqueam traditions and knowledge. He will use his teachings, knowledge of his ancestry and deep understanding of Coast Salish cultures to welcome and be inclusive to all.
"My goal," says Pointe "Is to build cultural awareness through teachable moments, using language, culture and ceremony to enhance the life of students."
His role will help foster a better understanding of the protocols and ceremonies of the Coast Salish Peoples for students and staff. A complementary aspect to the role, Pointe will also work with local Aboriginal groups in Vancouver to build understanding between those groups and the Vancouver School District.
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About Shane Pointe
Shane Pointe is from the Point family and is a proud member of the Musqueam and Coast Salish people. He is a highly respected Musqueam community member, ceremonial traditional speaker and cultural educator. He provides protocol and ceremonial guidance for many cultural events - locally, nationally and internationally. He has worked in various capacities such as: Aboriginal Support Worker (AEEW VSB), Trial Support Coordinator for the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, Native Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program worker with the Musqueam Indian Band, in the Longhouse Leadership Program at the First Nations House of Learning (University of British Columbia), and most recently providing support to the Aboriginal Mothers Centre.
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