Weaving Indigenous perspectives and mainstream science to help bridge the gap in science literacy

The CLS Education Team is committed to transforming STEM education by helping educators integrate experiential and inquiry learning into their teaching practices. We engage educators in immersive, hands-on learning opportunities that they can apply in their classroom or bring students to participate in our programs. We prioritize inclusivity by connecting to Indigenous Ways of Knowing and respecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions. Explore our programs to join us in empowering future generations and embracing Indigenous communities through science.

 

We work collaboratively with educators individually, as well as with departments, schools, divisions, faculties, and organizations to create specialized professional development opportunities. If you would like to discuss developing an opportunity with us, see the contact information below. And if you haven't heard about our award winning Students on the Beamlines program, then you must check that out too! 

 

Read our recent Canadian Journal of Chemistry peer-reviewed article on "STEM Education Activities".

 

Discover more about what we do by clicking on the buttons below!

Upcoming Events

Students on the Beamlines Information Session

Saturday January 24, 2026 - 10:00am-12:15pm CST
Virtual - Zoom

What is one of the most unique experiences for science educators & their students? You guessed it - SotB!! Previous participants describe it as the best professional development they've ever had - and their students call it science immersion. This 1/2 day session provides an overview of this student-driven, inquiry-based, experiential, long-term project. Join us to discover your next learning adventure!

Details on the info session are here. More information on SotB is here.

Science Learning Resources Through an Indigenous Lens Workshop

Saturday March 28, 2026 - time TBD
In-person at the Canadian Light Source in Saskatoon, SK

This is a workshop you do not want to miss if you are involved in science education and interested in developing your ability to re-work your resources and approaches to including Indigenous perspectives in your teaching practice. Join our panel & the CLS team and be prepared to collaborate on adaptations - to your resources and those of other participants.

Details and registration coming soon! 

Education Team

The Canadian Light Source is located in Saskatoon, on Treaty Six land in the traditional territories of the Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinabek, Dene, Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations, and the homeland of the Métis. As educators, we respect Indigenous Ways of Knowing and oral traditions. We dedicate ourselves to moving forward in the spirit of partnership, reconciliation, and collaboration.

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@EducationCLS         @cls.education

Our Advisories

Guided by the insights of our advisory committees, we ensure that STEM education at the CLS reflects diverse perspectives and supports educators in delivering meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. These advisors help shape inclusive programs that connect experiential learning, inquiry practices, and Indigenous Ways of Knowing, empowering educators to inspire students while respecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions. Together, we’re transforming STEM education and embracing diverse communities through science.

Elder Advisory

Gambina Tim Eashappie Sr. Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
Elder Cecile Smith Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Fishing Lake First Nation
Gambina Kathy Wahpepah Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation

Educator Advisory

Tina Rioux Secondary Science Teacher, Nutanna Collegiate, Saskastoon SK
Firdaus Bhathena Physics HL & Theory Knowledge, Halifax Grammar School, Halifax NS
Edward Kosloski Technology & Advanced Placement Coordinating Teacher, Our Lady of the Rockies High School, Calgary AB
Janice Osecap Science Catalyst, Cheif Moosomin School, Cochin SK
Ashley McCarl Palmer Teacher in Residence for Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo ON
Shawn Brooks Physics Teacher at University of Toronto Schools, Toronto ON
Rockford McKay Science Facilitator and Instructor for Manitoba First Nations School System, MB
Ellen Watson Brandon University Faculty of Education, Brandon MB
Julie Bolduc-Duval Director at Discover the Universe, QC