Celebrating PENT Indigenous Teacher Education

Earlier this spring Brandon University (BU) held a logo competition supporting an update to the title of the “Program for the Education of Native Teachers” (P.E.N.T.).  This competition was open to all current and former PENT students, with the entries representing PENT and its mandate of developing and supporting Indigenous teachers.  

On June 19, 2024 BU Faculty of Education hosted a summer feast for PENT students, staff and community.  It was a time to celebrate the summer solstice; the accomplishments of students in the PENT program, and to unveil BU’s new logo and title for the P.E.N.T. program. During this celebration, the PENT Advisory Committee were pleased to unveil and formally announce a new logo and name change to PENT Indigenous Teacher Education. Details on the competition and new logo can be found here:  PENT Indigenous Teacher Education | Brandon University  We are very pleased to share that our PENT students were at the forefront in contributing to the new title and logo.   Congratulations are extended to Nicole Friesen (2022 PENT graduate and current teacher at Philomene Chartrand School) for her winning submission, and to PENT students Hayley Cook (West Lynn Heights) and Chelsea Wood (Wanipigow) who also submitted excellent work to the PENT Advisory Committee.  Congratulations!

On July 12, 2024 the Division was pleased to support PENT graduating students at their graduation ceremony.  During the celebration Minister of Advanced Education and Training Honourable Renee Cable, and Dean of Education Dr. Alysha Farrell brought greetings to graduates, recognizing their accomplishments. As well, Chancellor Mary Jane McCallum extended congratulations and sage advice; and FSD Assistant Superintendent Nice shared congratulations on behalf of the Division.

Congratulations and bravos goes to:

• Jessica Bonner (HBOIERC)
• Hayley Cook (West Lynn Heights)
• Donna Duncan (Jack River)
• Cody Muminawatum (HBOIERC). Cody was recognized with the highest GPA. 
• Brian Kerry-Ann Shlachetka (Mel Johnson).

We are also pleased to share that our students were recognized for their grade point average during the celebration.  Bravos are extended to Cydney Bjerke (CPE/Frontier Collegiate) for highest GPA after 90 credit hours, and to Jayleen Flett (Wanipigow) for highest GPA after 42 credit hours.

Congratulations students on your many accomplishments.  You are commended for your dedication, perseverance, and resiliency in reaching your goal of becoming a teacher!