Professional Development. Centering Indigenous Land Education in Teacher Professional Development

• In Event: AERA Teachers of Color Handbook Session 1

Abstract

In this paper, we describe an ongoing project that engages participants in a two-day LETPD experience at the Lummi Nation. The LETPD model offers important insights for engaging decolonizing work across various educational contexts. Examining the experiences of planning and implementing the LETPD, a clear framework emerged for others to consider in working to facilitate community-led professional development with Indigenous communities in varying contexts. This framework is composed of 5 overarching principles, that the PD : 1) is built on authentic relationships, 2) is community led, 3) is localized and seasonal, 4) connects to school curriculum, and 5) supports resurgence. These five tenets do not follow a linear process, but should be considered throughout all aspects of LEPD.

Authors

• Anna Lees, Western Washington University

• Cynthia Wilson, Lummi Nation

• Renée Swan Waite, Lummi Nation

• Dolores Calderon, Western Washington University