Jo Chrona di waayu. Kitsumkalum di wil ’waatgu. Ganhada di pdeeg̱u
Where Education, Relationship, and Story Meet
Jo Chrona’s journey weaves collaboration and transformation together. As a Ts'msyen woman and member of the Kitsumkalum First Nation, Jo’s identity as Ganhada (Raven) of Waap (House) K'oom helps integrate First Nation’s perspectives into her work.
With over 25 years of experience in K-12 and post-secondary education, Jo has walked many paths—as a secondary and post-secondary classroom teacher, faculty associate in a teacher education program, policy analyst, Indigenous education advocate, curriculum writer, and resource developer. Each role has deepened her commitment to creating spaces where all learners thrive.
As an independent consultant, Jo’s warmth and expertise inspire others to move beyond conversation and into action. She helps generate lasting change through workshops, keynotes, and her books Wayi Wah! Indigenous Pedagogies: An Act for Reconciliation and Anti-Racist Education, and Sagaytgawdi: Grounding Assessment in Indigenous Knowledges to Support Equity and Well-being.
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Goo Suwilaawksdm (Teachings)
Creating Systemic Change Through Strengths-Based Practices
Jo believes that education is a powerful tool for equity and well-being. She works to create environments where diversity is celebrated and Reconciliation through education is embedded at its core. Her vision is a future where schools, universities, and organizations embrace Indigenous pedagogies and anti-racist practices, building communities where everyone feels seen and valued.
Jo works with people in various roles to help them take the next steps in their learning journeys in Indigenous and anti-racist education. She focuses on relationships, questions, and discussion to create spaces for educators to learn and be inspired.
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Ama goot, (having a good heart)
The Principles Behind Jo’s Work
Jo’s values provide a foundation for her work. These principles guide her approach to working with people:
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Authenticity
Being honest and genuine creates relationships that support learning and growth.
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Relationship
By seeking to know each other as individuals, we learn how to listen deeply and work collaboratively.
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Well-being
The purpose of learning is the well-being holistic health of individuals, families, and communities.
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Reconciliation
Moving forward in a good way requires Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, organizations, and governments to develop relationships rooted in truth and respect.
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Diversity
Collective strength is found in our unique strengths and challenges.
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Equity
People often need different supports and resources to achieve their learning goals.
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Cultural Humility
Acknowledging what we do not know allows us to learn about each other.
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Agency
Each of us has the ability to make a positive impact on each other and our world.
Łooda lp ‘nüün (Respect self), Łooda sila gyedn (Respect others) and Łooda txa’nii goo (Respect all things).
Jo’s Approach: Relational, Practical, and Eye-Opening
Jo builds trust and genuine relationships to design learning experiences that are practical, engaging, and actionable. She listens to needs and adapts her approach to ensure lasting impact. Making complex ideas accessible is central to Jo’s process. She shares concepts supported by experience, examples, and collaborative discussion to empower participants to apply their learning to their own unique contexts. Jo’s ultimate goal is transformation—helping people connect the personal to the professional and move from understanding to action. She challenges people to be safe in discomfort to develop educational spaces where everyone can thrive.