Teachers across the Rainy River district gathered at Fort Frances High School yesterday to learn more about the importance of using aboriginal languages in the classroom.
Anton Treuer, a professor at Bemidji University, says the ability to learn in their own language reduces the drop-out rate among native students.
"It goes to show that when kids learn their language and their culture, when they learn about themselves, that translates into positive self-esteem and academic excellence across the curriculum," says Treuer.
Treuer says it can also help bridge the gap between communities and races.
