Anishinabek Nation signs historic education self-government agreements

Photo courtesy of @AnishNation

Historic education self-government agreements involving the Anishinabek Nation, the province and Ottawa have been signed and support the implementation of the Anishinabek Education System.

There are 23 participating First Nations, including Nipissing and Dokis First Nations, making it the largest education self-government agreement in Canada.

It’s also the first in Ontario.

The agreement recognizes Anishinabek control over education on reserve from JK to Grade 12.

Provincially, the agreement describes the relationship between the Anishinabek Education System and Ontario’s provincially-funded education system, and sets out commitments, including areas of collaboration and action, between the parties.

The agreement will:
– Support the transition of students between Anishinabek First Nations’ schools and schools in the provincially-funded education system
– Foster engagement and participation of students, parents, families and communities to realize the goal of improved student achievement and well-being
– Enhance collaboration between participating First Nations, the Kinoomaadziwin Education Body, Ontario and school boards, including data and information sharing
– Support the advancement of Anishinabek language and culture, and the knowledge of Anishinabek First Nations’ histories, perspectives and contributions within Anishinabek First Nations’ schools and provincially-funded schools.

“I am pleased that Ontario, through the Ministry of Education, has acknowledged the critical need for provincial support and investment into the education of Anishinaabe students. I have no doubt that this support will result in academic excellence and improved personal and cultural growth,” says Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee, Grand Council Chief, Anishinabek Nation

“Ontario is strengthening relationships with First Nations communities and supporting the success and well-being of First Nations students. The Master Education Agreement between our province and the Anishinabek First Nations highlights Ontario’s commitment to working in partnership with First Nations in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration,” says Mitzie Hunter, Minister of Education.

“The evidence is clear: First Nations-led and First Nations-governed education systems, which ensure culturally appropriate and quality education, achieve better results for First Nation students. Today’s announcement demonstrates a commitment to advancing self-determination for First Nations and fosters a secure, personal cultural identity for Anishinabek students which will result in better health and education outcomes,” says Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.

The Anishinabek Education System includes the Kinoomaadziwin Education Body, Regional Education Councils and Local Education Authorities of participating First Nation communities.

Participating First Nations under the Anishinabek Education System will enact education laws that govern the Anishinabek Education System and the delivery of programs and services.

Each participating First Nation has law-making power and authority over education from JK to Grade 12 on-reserve and may setup a Local Education Authority (education board or committee) to support and manage education programs and services at the community level.

Participating First Nations will also establish and maintain system-wide education standards that support the transfer of Anishinabek students between the Anishinabek Education System schools and the provincial education system schools.