More Indigenous language classes coming to Sask. schools

More Indigenous languages are going to be offered in Saskatchewan high schools in 2019-20.

The province announced Tuesday that courses in Dene, Nakawe (Saulteaux) and Michif would be expanded from locally developed classes to being available across Saskatchewan.

The optional courses will be offered at the 10, 20 and 30 levels.

“We recognize that incorporating Indigenous language, culture and perspectives are foundational to the engagement and success of First Nations and Métis students,” Education Minister Gord Wyant said in a media release.

Dene is primarily spoken by Chipewyan communities in northern Saskatchewan, while Nakawe is spoken by the Saulteaux and Ojibwe First Nations. Michif is the official language of the Métis.

“The retention and preservation of our Indigenous languages has been an important focus of mine and it is encouraging to see a Métis language included in these efforts being made within our provincial education system,” said Earl Cook, Métis Nation Saskatchewan education minister.

The province said the move was an effort to “preserve and grow” Indigenous languages in Saskatchewan, and answered a Call to Action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Cree was already offered province-wide, while the languages being added were taught in locally developed courses based on student needs.