Lindsey Trudeau
- Home Community:
Winnipeg, MB - Cultural Identity:
Métis - Current Position:
Aboriginal Graduation Coach,
Winnipeg School Division - Education/Training:
Bachelor of Arts,
Bachelor of Education,
University of Manitoba - Roles/Responsibilties:
The main focus of the Aboriginal Graduation Coach program is to increase Aboriginal student graduation rates. At Grant Park high school I work with staff and students to help improve attendance, grades and credit attainment. I work closely with the support team (guidance counsellors, resource teachers, administrators) to help identify factors that lead to drop out rates and create plans that help support students on their graduation journey. The various ways I support students are providing extra-curricular opportunities to earn extra credit, connecting with tutoring opportunities for students, maintaining open communication with parent/guardians about school progress as well as assist with students transitioning from junior high to high school and from high school to post-secondary and/or the work force.
“Sometimes we take the path less travelled and it may take a little longer to get there but that’s okay.”
What obstacles did you face and how did you overcome them?
One obstacle I have been faced with is working with the stereotypes that many people have about Aboriginal people. I have always worked hard to get to where I am today and get really frustrated when people assume I had a helping hand along the way. I am proud to be Métis but I do not feel that my success is because I am Métis. I am successful AND I am Métis.
What or who inspired you to really go after the profession you are in now?
When I was younger I worked on a ranch which was a summer program for kids living in group homes through Macdonald Youth Services. It was one of the most rewarding jobs I had as a young adult and helped me realize how much I enjoyed working with youth. This experience ultimately encouraged me to go to University and become a teacher. I believe that my experience working with youth from the inner-city and/or in care helped shape my professional career. I taught in alternative programs and after teaching in an off-campus program, I realized that many Aboriginal youth were disconnected and struggling in school. This has led me to question “how can we, as educators, do better for our Aboriginal youth?” Being in the role I am now, I am able to connect with students, make them feel welcomed, valued and also help to make school less intimidating for them. This is what has inspired me to be where I am today.
I would also say my family has really inspired and motivated me to always strive for excellence. I would not be where I am today if it were not for the support and love of my parents, husband and children. It is because of them that I am able to further my career in educational leadership.
What critical choices or decisions did you make that helped you get where you are today?
I think the decision to go to University after being out of school for 2 years helped get me on track. I was unsure what exactly I wanted to do upon graduation and taking that time to explore who I was and what I found rewarding was very valuable in shaping who I am today. I also believe that the decision to go back to University to further my education has helped shaped my passion for Indigenous education and also has encouraged me to take on a leadership role.
Message of Encouragement:
It’s never too late to accomplish your dreams. Sometimes we take the path less travelled and it may take a little longer to get there but that’s okay. It is not a race.
