As the province celebrates Black History Month, the Ontario government is introducing new mandatory history learning in grades 7, 8 and 10 focusing on the exceptional contributions and history of Black Canadians who helped build Canada.
Beginning in September 2025, the Department of Education will for the first time add mandatory learning centered on Black history as an integral part of Canadian history. This learning will present the various black communities that formed and developed in the country and contributed to its growth, both before and after Confederation.
Students will discover the remarkable contributions of Black people to the founding of Canada as a young nation as well as the obstacles that hindered the creation of a democratic, inclusive and prosperous country.
“It is very important that all students know more about Black communities in Canada and their enormous impact on the development of the country. Black people have been part of Canadian history since the 1600s, said Patrice Barnes, the parliamentary assistant to the education minister. It is to this end that we want students to deepen their understanding of our country’s diverse and dynamic heritage and that we integrate this compulsory learning. The latter will incorporate many defining moments and help students better understand Canada’s rich heritage. »
Over the next year, the Department will consult with historians and educators as well as the Black community to inform new learning.
Furthermore, Ontario is continuing to modernize and update the curriculum to ensure that students graduate with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life and work – in and out of the classroom. Given the rapid pace of technological progress and the rise of entrepreneurship, the province is launching an updated curriculum next school year that prepares students for the jobs of tomorrow.
“Black history is Canadian history,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education. Mandating learning about the contributions of Black people to the founding and success of our country will lead the next generation to better understand the sacrifice, patriotic commitment and lasting contributions of Black Canadians to the development of Canada. As the economy and technology continually evolve, we will continue to modernize the curriculum with a focus on STEM education so that students graduate with the skills and confidence that will allow them to pursue well-paying jobs. »
In order to meet the government’s commitment to provide greater transparency to parents and the public on how the curriculum is updated, the provincial government has published the new Guide concerning the examination and revision of the curriculum of l’Ontario.
This guide provides an overview of the review and revision process for curriculum by the Ministry, from kindergarten to grade 12, in French and English. It also presents the government’s plan to revise the curriculum every five years to ensure it is up to date and relevant in the context of the skills needed today, both in the job market and in life.
Source: Government of Ontario
Photo : “Black history is Canadian history,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education.
2024-02-17 16:02:43
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