Shirley Oldnall

I have lived in Fort Mac for 12 years, fully embracing the community and its surroundings. In my spare time, I am drawn to the outdoors, exploring and fishing along the Clearwater and Peace Rivers. The call of the wild often leads me north to the trapline on Moose Island, where I am privileged to learn from and with Indigenous cultures and perspectives.

Recognizing that Indigenous knowledge systems are holistic, interconnected, and rooted in specific relationships with the land, community, and spirituality, I approach teaching Indigenous perspectives with thoughtfulness and respect, honouring the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures, histories, and worldviews.

My academic background includes teaching certifications for K-12, a BA with a triple major in English, History, and Linguistics, and a Masters in General Linguistics. Since moving to Canada, I’ve furthered my education with Indigenous Knowledge courses at the Universities of Toronto, Alberta, and The First Nations University.

I believe that learning is most effective when it is experiential and reflective. Whether it is through completing a traditional craft under the guidance of elders or analyzing the rich narratives of history and language, I encourage my students to engage actively with the material and to see learning as a dynamic process. My role as an educator is to guide them on this journey, providing them with the tools and support they need to develop their own insights and perspectives.

Above all, I value the unique viewpoints that each student brings to the classroom. Teaching is a reciprocal process, and I am continually inspired by the fresh perspectives my students offer.