A Year of Cultural Learning at Kells: Celebrating Diversity, Building Global Citizens

In today’s interconnected world, global competence is more than a buzzword; it’s a life skill. At Kells Academy, we believe that true education empowers students not just with knowledge, but with the tools to understand, respect, and connect with people from all walks of life.

Nestled in the heart of multicultural Montreal, our school community reflects the rich diversity of the city around us. From Truth and Reconciliation efforts to cultural field trips, anti-racism education, and our spectacular International Day, 2024-2025 was a year filled with powerful learning experiences that expanded hearts and minds.

Here’s a look back at a school year defined by inclusion, curiosity, and global learning.

Walking the Path of Truth and Reconciliation

Our commitment to cultural understanding begins with acknowledging the land we learn on: the unceded territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation, known traditionally as Tiohtià:ke, or “where the rivers and boats meet.” Today, it is known as Montreal, and remains a gathering place for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

At Kells, this land acknowledgment is part of a deeper commitment to Truth and Reconciliation in education. We strive to meet the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission by centering Indigenous voices and histories in our curriculum and community.

A Visit from Na’kuset: A Lesson in Strength and Identity

On September 30th, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, every student wore an orange shirt pin—a symbol of remembrance and a pledge to do better. The day’s most unforgettable moment came when we welcomed back Na’kuset, a Cree activist and Sixties Scoop survivor.

Speaking to a packed assembly, Na’kuset shared her powerful life story. She was taken from her family at the age of three and adopted into a household where her Cree identity was denied. Despite the pain, she rose to become the Executive Director of the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal, an advocate, a speaker, and a leader.

Her talk deeply moved both students and staff. Afterward, many classes took up her call to action by learning more about Indigenous experiences in Canada. Grade 9 French students created compelling research projects on Indigenous history, while Grade 12 English classes dove into the realities of urban Indigenous communities.

Learning Through Story: Theatre as a Cultural Lens

When it comes to exploring identity and culture, the stage can be a powerful teacher.

Last fall, Grade 11 students attended a performance of Three Women of Swatow at Centaur Theatre. Written by Chloé Hung, this darkly funny, deeply emotional play tells the story of three generations of Chinese-Canadian women unraveling family secrets and breaking cycles of trauma.

The play sparked rich conversations about generational differences, immigration, and the pressure of cultural expectations. Seeing these themes dramatized on stage brought English class lessons to life and encouraged students to reflect on their own identities and family narratives.

Discovering Montreal’s Roots: A Tale of Two Field Trips

This year, both our Grade 7 and 8 students and our Language Center learners explored Montreal’s rich history with visits to the Pointe-à-Callière Museum in the Old Port.

Grade 7 and 8 students took in an immersive multimedia show and archaeological exhibits tracing the city’s origins, from Indigenous life on Tiohtià:ke to the founding of Fort Ville-Marie. It was a vivid and engaging way to bring their classroom learning to life.

Later in the year, our Language Center students—who come from around the world to learn English and experience Canadian culture—had their own unforgettable visit. In addition to the permanent exhibitions highlighting Montreal’s rich history, students also explored a captivating temporary exhibit on the history of witchcraft around the world, offering insights into how superstition and folklore intersect with culture. Perhaps even more memorable was the fresh snowfall that greeted them outside, offering a true taste of Montreal winter. They rounded out the day with classic poutine and sightseeing in the historic Old Port.

Check out a reel featuring the Language Center’s trip to Pointe-à-Callière.

Fighting Racism with Dialogue and Action

Creating a more inclusive world means having honest conversations and learning how to be part of the solution.

That’s exactly what happened when media personality and youth advocate Malik Shaheed visited Kells for an unforgettable presentation on anti-racism, diversity, and social justice.

Shaheed began with a high-energy DJ set to get the crowd moving, but quickly shifted gears, inviting students into an open and powerful discussion about racial equity and allyship. Students shared personal reflections, asked bold questions, and walked away with tools to make a difference in their communities.

To cap it off, MP Sameer Zuberi stopped by to present Shaheed with the King Charles Award, a celebration of a life dedicated to building bridges and fighting hate.

International Day: A Celebration of Our Global Family

The culmination of our cultural learning came in the form of International Day, one of Kells Academy’s most beloved traditions. With students from over 45 nationalities, this annual event is a joyful showcase of our shared humanity.

This year’s celebration began on April 2nd with a vibrant assembly. Students presented multimedia slideshows about their cultural heritage, setting the tone for the festivities.

Next, the school transformed into a global village. Each continent had its own designated space, with student-run booths featuring traditional foods, artifacts, music, and personal stories. Many students proudly wore traditional clothing or accessories with cultural significance, turning our hallways into a colourful, living tapestry of global traditions.

Walking through Kells on International Day felt like traveling the world in an afternoon. It was an authentic expression of what makes our school so special: respect for differences, curiosity about the world, and a sense of unity through diversity.

Why Cultural Learning Matters

At Kells Academy, we believe that intercultural understanding is a cornerstone of a well-rounded, 21st-century education. In a world where differences can divide, we teach students to see diversity as a strength and to approach others with curiosity, compassion, and courage.

Whether through storytelling, hands-on exploration, or joyful celebrations, we’re helping our students become informed global citizens ready to lead with empathy and purpose.

Looking Forward

As we look ahead to the next school year, we’re proud of the foundation we’ve built over nearly fifty years. The journey of cultural learning never ends; there’s always more to explore, more to understand, and more bridges to build.

Here’s to another year of learning from each other, celebrating what makes us unique, and growing together as a truly global school community.