Nominations Open for Métis Early Childhood Educator Awards

Nominations are now open for the Kanawaymawashoohk (“Looking After Children”) Métis Early Childhood Educator Awards, organized by the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Early Childhood Association (SECA). These awards aim to recognize the contributions of Métis educators throughout the province who effectively integrate Métis culture and identity into early childhood education.

This year marks the fourth iteration of the awards, which celebrate teachers dedicated to instilling Métis values in children from diverse backgrounds. According to Andrea Fiss, the director of education for Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, the awards seek individuals who not only identify as Métis citizens but also actively promote Métis culture in their childcare centres. “We’re looking for somebody who is really working hard to make sure that Métis culture and identity are brought into the child-care centre where they’re working,” Fiss stated.

The awards serve as a significant milestone for a community that has historically been marginalized. Métis educators play a vital role in fostering an environment where children can embrace their cultural heritage. Fiss explained, “Children can be proud and it’s through a lot of different ways but, specifically with child care, we want to ensure that our Métis culture, language, and history are part of the curriculum.”

Melissa Dumont, a recipient of the Outstanding Métis Early Childhood Educator award in 2025, emphasized the impact of sharing her culture in the classroom. “To be comfortable with yourself, to be able to go through the motions of being a Métis educator or a non-Métis educator but showing Métis values is crucial. If you’re speaking it, it’s OK if you get it wrong. You just try and try again,” Dumont remarked. She noted that encouraging these discussions helps the next generation learn how to interact with various cultures.

In a proactive step towards enhancing Métis education, a new child care centre is set to open in Saskatoon. This facility will accommodate 90 children and will focus on a curriculum centered around Métis culture, language, values, and identity. Fiss remarked on the importance of representation, stating, “When you have this pan-Indigenous approach, you don’t feel like your culture, whether you’re First Nation or Métis, is actually being represented at all. When you walk into the centre, you’re going to see artwork and elements that specifically talk about our culture as Métis people and celebrate that distinction.”

For non-Métis educators seeking to support Métis children, resources and programs are available through Métis Nation-Saskatchewan. Fiss highlighted the demand for these tools among early childhood educators, who wish to better serve both Métis and non-Métis families. “Early childhood educators need and want resources and information because they want to be able to support Métis families or non-Métis families. The more people know, the more acceptance grows,” she explained.

The Kanawaymawashoohk Awards not only recognize the achievements of educators but also aim to build a more inclusive educational framework where Métis culture is celebrated and integrated, ensuring that future generations can take pride in their heritage.