Weaving Indigenous perspectives and mainstream science to help bridge the gap in science literacy

The CLS Education Team is committed to transforming STEM education by helping educators integrate experiential and inquiry learning into their teaching practices. We engage educators in immersive, hands-on learning opportunities that they can apply in their classroom or bring students to participate in our programs. We prioritize inclusivity by connecting to Indigenous Ways of Knowing and respecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions. Explore our programs to join us in empowering future generations and embracing Indigenous communities through science.

 

We work collaboratively with educators individually, as well as with departments, schools, divisions, faculties, and organizations to create specialized professional development opportunities. If you would like to discuss developing an opportunity with us, see the contact information below. And if you haven't heard about our award winning Students on the Beamlines program, then you must check that out too! 

 

Read our recent Canadian Journal of Chemistry peer-reviewed article on "STEM Education Activities".

 

Discover more about what we do by clicking on the buttons below!

Upcoming Events

Blaine Lake Students on the Beamlines Seminar

Monday May 4th, 2026 / time TBD
In-person at the Canadian Light Source in Saskatoon, SK
and live on YouTube

These students from Blaine Lake SK are investigating effects of forest fire smoke on herbs and garden plants. Tune in to see their results. 

Students on the Beamlines Poster Competition

Carlton Comprehensive High School (Prince Albert, SK) & St. James Collegiate Institute (Winnipeg, MB) will go head-to-head in front of the judges at the CLS Annual Users Meeting on May 21st, 2026.

Watch for the social media opportunity to vote for your favourite the week before!

Users Meeting information: https://event.fourwaves.com/cls-aum-2026/pages 

 

Education Team

The Canadian Light Source is located in Saskatoon, on Treaty Six land in the traditional territories of the Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinabek, Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations, and the homeland of the Métis. As educators, we respect Indigenous Ways of Knowing and oral traditions. We dedicate ourselves to moving forward in the spirit of partnership, reconciliation, and collaboration.

Stay Updated! Subscribe for event, program, and resource updates!

@EducationCLS         @cls.education

Our Advisories

Guided by the insights of our advisory committees, we ensure that STEM education at the CLS reflects diverse perspectives and supports educators in delivering meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. These advisors help shape inclusive programs that connect experiential learning, inquiry practices, and Indigenous Ways of Knowing, empowering educators to inspire students while respecting Traditional Knowledge and Cultural Expressions. Together, we’re transforming STEM education and embracing diverse communities through science.

Elder Advisory

Gambina Tim Eashappie Sr. Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation
Elder Cecile Smith Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Fishing Lake First Nation
Gambina Kathy Wahpepah Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation

Educator Advisory

Tina Rioux Secondary Science Teacher, Nutanna Collegiate, Saskastoon SK
Firdaus Bhathena Physics HL & Theory Knowledge, Halifax Grammar School, Halifax NS
Edward Kosloski Technology & Advanced Placement Coordinating Teacher, Our Lady of the Rockies High School, Calgary AB
Janice Osecap Science Catalyst, Cheif Moosomin School, Cochin SK
Ashley McCarl Palmer Teacher in Residence for Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, Waterloo ON
Shawn Brooks Physics Teacher at University of Toronto Schools, Toronto ON
Rockford McKay Science Facilitator and Instructor for Manitoba First Nations School System, MB
Ellen Watson Brandon University Faculty of Education, Brandon MB
Julie Bolduc-Duval Director at Discover the Universe, QC