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

The CLS Education Team is committed to transforming STEM education by showing educators how to integrate experiential learning and inquiry practices 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.

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

Upcoming Events

What is a Synchrotron and What is it Used For?
Dr. Joel Reid

Presenter: Dr. Joel Reid
Where: Virtual
When: Accessible July 15th - Sept 30th
Register for Access and Curricular Resource: https://bit.ly/4eVfws6 

Join Dr. Joel Reid from the Industry Science team at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) as he explores real-world research projects in this engaging webinar designed for curious minds! Dr. Reid explains how companies collaborate with CLS scientists to solve challenges in areas like health, agriculture, and advanced materials using cutting-edge synchrotron techniques. From biological tissues to battery technology, this webinar connects science to everyday life.

Register today to view the 55min webinar and recieve access to a curricular resource that identifies curricular connections for various subject areas!

Corey Gray, Indigenous Physicist, Senior Operator at LIGO

Presenter: Corey Gray
Where: Canadian Light Source
When: Tuesday September 23rd, 5:00-8:00 pm
Cost: Free

CLS Education is excited to host a member of the team that was first to detect gravitational waves. He will share his experiences as part of that and his work integrating his Blackfoot culture into his science communications work. A discussion about how these concepts and ideas can be integrated into science classrooms will follow. Then you will be offered an in-depth tour of the CLS synchrotron. Registration is open until Sept 12. 

More information and details are here!

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

Elder Norman Fleury – Michif Elder and language expert, originally from St. Lazare
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