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Abstract
This study describes the life and work experiences of current and former non-aboriginal teachers working in an aboriginal school on the north coast of Labrador. Interviews with present teachers and mailed questionnaires to former teachers provided a rich description of the life and work experiences of non-aboriginal teachers in aboriginal schools. Additional information was provided from field notes compiled in the school during the course of the study.
The major findings of this study were; (a) Non-aboriginal teachers who stay working in aboriginal schools for more than two years do so because of a dedication to and concern for the students they teach; (b) Non-aboriginal teachers who are open-minded, responsive to cultural challenges and demonstrate cultural sensitivity, easily adapt to community life; (c) Non-aboriginal teachers who leave aboriginal schools and communities after a short period of time, do so for personal and professional reasons; (d) the Labrador School Board must provide current and accurate information to prospective teacher candidates regarding aboriginal schools and communities; (e) the Labrador School Board must become more proactive in dealing with teacher concerns in aboriginal schools.
