The local public school board is honouring the life and legacy of a former educator.
Harriet Jacobs, whose vision and determination transformed education for Indigenous students, passed away on Sunday, November 16th.
Jacobs became the first Native Studies teacher at Wallaceburg District Secondary school in 1975, standing firm in her belief that Indigenous students deserved dedicated support and cultural connection within the school system.
Among her many contributions:
- She served as the first Supervisor of the first Indigenous Child Care Centre in Canada, The Walpole Island Day Care Centre.”
- She established the Culture Club, now known as the Future Elders Leadership Group.
- She coached basketball, baseball, and volleyball, fostering teamwork and pride among students.
- She built the Indigenous Education and Support Program from the ground up, starting in the smallest room and growing it into a vital resource.
- Upon her retirement in 2004, the Native Studies office was renamed the Harriet Jacobs Centre (HJC)—a space that continues to serve as a beacon of support and belonging for Indigenous students.
To honour Jacobs’ memory, the Lambton Kent District School Board has created a graduation award for Indigenous students, celebrating leadership, resilience, and cultural pride.
School board officials say specific details, including criteria and sponsorship, will be announced in the coming months.