Agreement Signed for Northwest Aboriginal Education Enhancement

Wednesday, November 10, 2010 03:53 AM

Dease Lake, B.C. – It’s a process to improve the outcomes of Aboriginal learners, foster a sense of identity, and increase knowledge of First Nations History.

First Nations Chiefs from a vast area of Northern B.C. gathered with the Stikine School District for the signing of the province’s 51^st Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement.

The Stikine school district is the largest in British Columbia, stretching across over 188,000 square kilometres and serving a number of isolated communities with a very high percentage of Aboriginal learners. In 2008-09, First Nations students made up over 81% of the district’s total enrolment.

Education Minister George Abbott says the signing of the agreement will bring more history and culture to the classroom to the benefit of all students across District 87.

The implementation of the deal involves shared decision making among the participant groups:

· Daylu Dena Council

· Dease River Band Council

· Iskut Band Council

· Tahltan Band Council

· Taku River Tlingit First Nation

· School District 87 (Stikine)

· Ministry of Education

Stikine Board of Education Chair Feddie Louie has high hopes for the agreement.

“Through collaborative partnerships, an agreement was developed that will not only promote and support the educational development of Aboriginal learners, but will also incorporate the wisdom and knowledge of their traditional culture in their day-to-day school life. Students will experience a sense of belonging, respect and safety within their school and community environments allowing them to develop a strong cultural and academic identity.”

The Ministry of Education is providing $61.5 million ($1,160 per student) in estimated funding for Aboriginal education in 2010-11. The funds are used to support Aboriginal language and cultural programs, Aboriginal support service programs, and other localized Aboriginal education programs.

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Posted on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 03:53 AM in News by 250 News

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Comments

Posted by: He spoke on November 10 2010 7:43 AM

Hmmm, I wonder if the schools are going to be built in their communities.

Education and keeping up with technology is the key to success.... well a bit of sweat equity helps too.

Posted by: Howrd_B_Stern on November 10 2010 10:21 AM

Somewhat erroneous reporting here.

Enhancement agreements do not include any sort of financial help. EA's are a tripartite agreement between Boards of Education, Ministry of Education, and the Aboriginal community. A creation by the MOE to hold districts accountable, but in reality they are a waste of time and money.

The $1160/student you speak of, is known as 1701 targeted funding and is available to every district in this province regardless of whether or not an EA has been signed. For example, SD57 is one of two districts in the province that has not signed such an agreement, but they still receive 1701 funding.

In order to qualify for the 1701 funds for Aboriginal students, school districts must:
-Have the student self-identify as being Aboriginal.
-Provide an enhanced program for that student.

I really wonder why you chose to throw the $1160/student funding in there when it has no relevance to the story?

Is it there as food for thought or as fodder for sensationalistic/populist journalism?