This document will assist individuals and communities to engage in meaningful discussions and actions to respond to the experiences, perspectives and needs of students and families who are gender and/or sexually diverse (GSD). It will: assist school divisions, central office personnel, administrators, educators, First Nations and Métis organizations and community partners to develop a deeper understanding of gender and sexual diversity; assist in understanding the unique educational, health and safety needs of staff, students and their families who self-identify as gender and/or sexually diverse; provide practical strategies, suggestions and frequently asked questions to support schools and communities as they work with students to anticipate and overcome challenges related to transphobia, homophobia and heterosexism; acknowledge the shared responsibility of ensuring that all students who identify as gender and/or sexually diverse have the same opportunities for safety, socialization and success in schools; assist educators in planning curricular-based instruction and assessment to meet the unique needs of gender and/or sexually diverse students; and assist school divisions and First Nations and Métis organizations to fulfill their ethical and professional responsibilities to provide safe, equitable and inclusive learning environments for all students regardless of their actual or perceived differences.

sākīyıso – Understanding and Building Healthy Relationships uses Cree/Nehiyaw cultural knowledge to support the development of healthy relationships amongst peers, dating partners, family and community. Indigenous languages, Tipi Teachings, videos featuring Indigenous youth and Elders, and the preparation and hosting of a traditional feast, support the development of protective factors that prevent violence against self and others. sākīyıso also provides a historical approach to explain the effects of colonialism and internalized oppression as they impact on the mental health of young people, and demonstrates a sustainable, self-reflective spiritual and cultural path forward. Fifteen lessons in four units provide comprehensive knowledge of best relationship practices and cultural teachings for healthy families, communities, gender and sexuality differences, healthy dating relationships, and anti-bullying.