Historic Partnership Signed to Support First Nation Students in Prince Edward Island

Ref. #2-3401

L-R: Chief Brian Francis, Chief Darlene Bernard, Minister Duncan, Minister Currie, Minister Campbell signing a Memorandum of Understanding on education to support the province's First Nations students - August 30, 2010

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (August 30, 2010) – The Government of Canada, the Government of Prince Edward Island and the Mi'kmaq First Nations of Prince Edward Island have signed an historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on education. The MOU will support the province's First Nation learners from early childhood through to post-secondary education. The Memorandum of Uunderstanding provides a common vision for the educational success of Mi'kmaq learners, supporting them in reaching their full learning potential.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Honourable John Duncan, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non‑Status Indians, the Honourable Carolyn Bertram, Prince Edward Island Minister of Health and Wellness and Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, the Honourable Doug W. Currie, Prince Edward Island Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development, the Honourable Allan V. Campbell, Prince Edward Island Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, Chief Brian Francis of the Abegweit First Nation and Chief Darlene Bernard of the Lennox Island First Nation. Both Chiefs are co-chairs of the board of directors of Mi'kmaq Confederacy of Prince Edward Island. 

Improving education outcomes for Prince Edward Island's First Nation learners is a priority for all of the partners. This agreement provides:

• a framework for collaboration that includes the development of a comprehensive joint education action plan;
• a provincial commitment to reinvest a portion of tuition payments received from First Nations into educational programming for First Nation students;
• the development of new Tuition Fee Agreements designed to support Mi'kmaq learners who attend public schools;
• a support for learner transitions between grade levels and school systems;
• the establishment of culturally affirming policies and programs; and
• the creation of new performance criteria and indicators to measure the improved educational outcomes.

“From kindergarten to university, education shapes our lives and our opportunities. I am proud to be a participant in this historic partnership to support the Island's First Nation learners on their education journey,” said Minister Duncan. “I am confident that this agreement is a significant step towards delivering real, meaningful results and improving educational outcomes for First Nation students on Prince Edward Island.”

“This partnership establishes clear goals and strategies to support Mi'kmaq student achievement across our One Island Community,” said Minister Bertram. “By giving the Mi'kmaq community a stronger presence in our schools, we are providing the framework for student success as well as enhancing the cultural understanding of all students.”

"Our community members, living on and off reserve, understand the important role education plays in the development of strong and healthy families," said Chief Francis. "As leaders, to best position our communities for a sustainable growth and continued success, we need to provide our citizens with every opportunity to gain a quality education."

This agreement reinforces the Government of Canada's commitment to work with First Nations and provinces to ensure that First Nations children receive the education they require for success.

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