First Nation, Métis, Inuit Education
OUR FIRST NATIONS, MÉTIS, INUIT EDUCATION PROJECT
RECENT PAST
In 2005, a commitment was made by political and Aboriginal leaders across Canada to take action to close the quality of life gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people. Improving educational achievement for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 was one of the ways identified to make meaningful change.
As a result, in 2007, the Ministry of Education launched the Ontario First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Policy Framework, with the goal to improve the learning environment and educational outcomes for Aboriginal students. The Ministry of Education committed to providing funds and support to Ontario school boards so they can promote awareness and appreciation for First Nation, Métis and Inuit history, culture, language and perspectives. The benefits of the Ministry’s commitment will extend to our Board’s schools.
OUR RESPONSE
In April 2009, the Halton Catholic and Halton District School board began the process by hiring an Aboriginal Liaison Officer to work with our boards. Together, they will establish an Internal Working Group, an Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee as well as an Elder’s Advisory Council to guide and advise the project.
Our Aboriginal education project is called Making Connections for Success which we feel reflects the importance of working together for the benefit of present and future generations. A major focus of this project is to establish a Voluntary Aboriginal Self-Identification Policy. The goal of this policy is to collect accurate data in order to track student progress and help us evaluate the effectiveness our new student success initiatives.
LOOKING AHEAD
We look forward to the many opportunities this project will offer our school communities. Studies show that the most effective schools are ones that recognize Aboriginal cultures, identity, values and needs, while challenging students to acquire the skills necessary to succeed in life. As we plan for the future, we invite you to attend one of the community consultations events we have planned, or call to arrange a group presentation or one-on-one interview. Your input is important as we work together in Making Connections for Success.