This release was issued under a previous government.
This agreement is the first of its kind in Alberta.
The Kee Tas Kee Now agreement outlines the framework for establishing a First Nations education authority. It enhances supports and strengthens the capacity to provide education to these students in order to increase attendance and high school completion. Students will continue to receive education in a culturally-relevant environment in their community, while benefitting from improved educational supports similar to those of other students in Alberta such as curriculum development and technology.
This expands current programs that incorporate traditional skills such as hunting and fishing, by enhancing elements of literacy and numeracy, science and how to be stewards of the environment. The agreement was developed with input from Alberta Education, Indigenous Relations and Kee Tas Kee Now education partners.
“Our government is committed to working collaboratively with our First Nations, Métis and Inuit education partners and with the federal government to strengthen First Nations education in Alberta. We want to ensure First Nations students have the instructional supports they need, while receiving an education that reflects their rich culture and perspectives.”
This agreement provides a framework for how other school authorities can work together to develop strategies to improve the educational outcomes of First Nations students in their respective jurisdictions. It supports the Premier’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and allows Alberta Education to continue to implement its commitments in the Memorandum of Understanding for First Nations Education in Alberta.
“I am pleased with the support being provided by the Government of Alberta as it will help give our children the education they need to build a successful future. I look forward to working together on this important initiative.”
“This agreement speaks to our government’s commitment to a renewed relationship with Indigenous communities throughout the province. We are proud of this partnership with the Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council to enhance the access and delivery of education for the community’s youth.”
Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council has been providing advisory services for 20 years to its members from the Loon River, Lubicon Lake Band, Peerless Trout, Whitefish Lake and Woodland Cree First Nations.