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 First Nation, Métis, Inuit Education

 

 Further Information

 
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Aboriginal Education in Halton - Making Connections for Success
Aboriginal Voluntary Confidential Student Self-Identification
Voluntary Self-Identification - First Nation, Métis, Inuit Students

Recent Past

In 2005, a commitment was made by political and Aboriginal leaders from 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 school boards across the province 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 that 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, your input is important as we work together in Making Connections for Success.