Dear Sir / Madam;

It is with great pleasure that I write to you about Elder Christopher Stock. Elder Stock has been working with us in Trillium Lakelands District School Board as a Knowledge Holder, Cultural Teacher and Language Instructor for many years. As a former graduate of TLDSB, Christopher shared his teachings with educators and classmates alike. Now as a partner in cultural education and an Elder in the “Elders in Residence Program”, Christopher shares his knowledge with staff and students in a number of our elementary and secondary schools.

As a cultural and language teacher and a member of the Ontario College of Teachers, Elder Stock brings a unique and talented perspective to the classroom. He is able to combine Ontario curriculum with Mohawk teachings in a truly integrated way that engages students and inspires them to be agents of change who genuinely work in allyship towards a true vision of reconciliation. As a valued member of our community, having Elder Stock in our schools allows all students, especially Indigenous students, to see themselves and their cultures and families celebrated and honoured in our school environment.

Most recently, Elder Stock was part of a team that co-created and co-delivered a virtual summer program for Indigenous students focused on social entrepreneurship. This program married cultural teachings with passion projects. Students were guided by the Elders to learn about their connection to Mother Earth, The Thanksgiving Address and the Four Sacred Elements, to see how they have the ability to be influencers in our communities, no matter how old they are. Students ended the program by presenting their ideas to a virtual audience with pride and excitement, all owing to the support they received from the team of Elders and Elder Stock in particular.

Christopher is a valued member of our community and an extremely important part of Indigenous Education in TLDSB. Should you have any questions or if you would like to discuss anything further, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,