Qeq College is a kindergarten transition program for Indigenous families whose children will be entering kindergarten in the fall. It is a partnership between the Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre (TLAFC), Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public Schools and Vancouver Island University with support from early childhood educators, researchers and community organizations. Through an Early Childhood Development Working Group, the community partners have a shared vision for providing culturally-safe and appropriate early childhood education based on sound principles of early learning. An advisory group provided guidance so that Indigenous language, culture, worldviews and ways of knowing are clearly expressed and integrated throughout the curriculum. Experienced early learning educators contributed practical ideas for activities to engage children and families, and extra support is offered throughout the school year to maintain and enhance individual progress plans. The findings of this evaluation reveal that the presence of Elders in the classroom to weave language and culture throughout the program is vital to the program’s success. Building relationships with children and families and among staff and administrators is also crucial to the positive impact Qeq College has on children and families as well as in the broader Indigenous community. –https://indspire.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/QEQ-Baby-College_final.pdf
