Vancouver, BC, March 7, 2024 — The British Columbia School Superintendents Association (BCSSA) and its steering committee, the Professional Standards 9 Awareness Working Group (PS9AWG), have selected KJB Digital Inc. as the agency of record for developing a series of branding and communications initiatives, including an online interactive web platform, to support BC educators in effectively integrating Professional Standard 9 into their practice and curriculum.
After a thorough evaluation process that included reviewing numerous potential digital marketing partners, KJB Digital was chosen for its demonstrated expertise, innovative ideas, and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion.
Professional Standard 9 is a critical component of educators' responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of respecting and valuing the history, cultures, and perspectives of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada. By contributing towards truth, reconciliation, and healing, educators play a vital role in fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
With the uptake of Indigenous-focused courses in BC secondary schools increasing significantly, in alignment with the Ministry of Education and Child Care's new Indigenous-focused graduation requirement, there is a growing need for system supports to help teachers effectively incorporate Indigenous content and pedagogy into their teaching.
"We are very impressed with KJB Digital's body of work, vision, and expertise and are very excited to be working together," said Shawn T. McMullin, Director of the Professional Excellence Unit at the Teacher Regulation Branch of the Ministry of Education and Child Care.
The video Professional Standard 9 – Truth and Reconciliation, Moving Forward Together supports each BC Educator's professional responsibility to keep learning, examine their own biases, incorporate Indigenous perspectives into the curriculum, and continue to build respectful relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.
"We are honoured to have been chosen to partner with the BCSSA and PS9AWG on this transformative project. At KJB Digital, we believe in the power of interactive digital communications to drive positive change, and we are committed to leveraging our expertise to support educators in broadening their viewpoints. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in education, and we look forward to collaborating closely with the BCSSA and PS9AWG to create impactful solutions that make a difference among educators and in classrooms across British Columbia," stated Ken Barnes, CEO of KJB Digital.
The initiatives developed by KJB Digital will provide educators throughout the province with the tools and information they need to access and utilize educational resources that promote an understanding of and appreciation for the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.
About BCSSA: The British Columbia School Superintendents Association (BCSSA) represents educational leaders across the province, working to foster excellence in education and support student success.
About PS9AWG: The Professional Standard 9 Awareness Working Group (PS9AWG) seeks to enhance educators' learning and appreciation of Indigenous culture, history, ways, and traditions throughout the province.
About KJB Digital: Founded in 2019, KJB Digital Inc. is a full-service digital marketing agency with offices in Penticton and Calgary. The communications firm serves over 30 clients across various industries.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Gavin Miller KJB Digital Inc. gmiller@kjbdigital.com +1 (800) 294-2805