The Southern Lakes Caribou in the Schools Program is a locally developed K–12 initiative that connects students with caribou and culturally-grounded stewardship. This project will mark the launch of a new, free, and facilitated program for educators and learners throughout the Southern Lakes region. Led by the Southern Lakes Caribou Steering Committee and developed by land-based educational organization Rivers to Ridges in partnership with Southern Lakes First Nations, the Yukon Government, Elders and Knowledge Holders, and Renewable Resource Councils, the program strengthens community relationships with caribou while building long-term support for their stewardship. Through classroom learning and time on the land, students will deepen their relationship with the Southern Lakes Caribou. The project team will coordinate program delivery, support educators, engage Elders and community partners, develop learning resources, and work with an advisory group to secure sustainable funding to embed caribou education into Southern Lakes schools for years to come.
