Good Day! We hope that everyone is safe and well.

FNT2T Life Long Learning has been working on ways that young people can learn the history of Treaty 2. Life Long Learning Keeper, Donna Beyer, has been drafting learning booklets for early years to begin and/or continue their learning around treaties, First Nations’ history, and identity.

The first draft book is tentatively titled, Binenshii. The title (and spelling) may change. It has a list of important vocabulary words that are centered around treaty learning for young people. The story shared in the book is one told through the voice of a little bird, Binenshii, who was present at signing of Treaty 2. The first story draft will be reworked based on review. It has been a difficult process constructing the story in a way that shares facts about the signing and the promises of Treaty 2 while at the same time telling the story in a way that engages young learners. It is for this reason, the story will be reworked to reflect the voice and perspective of the little bird, Binenshii.

The other drafted booklets are treaty learning booklets for grades K to 4. Each booklet consists of the following sections: Rationale, Preparing to Teach, Terms to Know, Preparing Students to Learn, Reliable Sources for Classrooms, 20+ Lessons, and References. The 20+ lessons in each booklet will meet some learning outcomes in Manitoba Education and Training’s Social Studies subject area; however, lessons are focused on First Nations’ history, identity, and treaties (Treaty 2). It is important to note that early and middle years is more focused on engaging with First Nations’ identity and history so that young First Nations people understand why they are connected to treaties. The grade three booklet is entails more specific Treaty 2 learning.

FNT2T Life Long Learning is currently exploring printing/publishing opportunities for these booklets. Again, the booklets will remain in draft mode as they evolve.

If any of the FNT2T schools are interested in piloting these booklets in K-4 classrooms (virtual learning), please contact the FNT2T head office in Dauphin for more information. Our focus is on learning the history of Treaty 2 and its promises.

Renew and revitalize.