All parents/guardians of aboriginal students, and students where they are 18 years or older, have the right to voluntarily self-identify. By self-identifying, you help us to monitor the success of the programs and services we offer, and identify ways we can support aboriginal students so that they meet with success.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Framework and Voluntary Self-Identification Policy

What is the First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Framework?
The Ontario Ministry of Education’s First Nation, Métis and Inuit Education Framework outlines strategies to support success for aboriginal students by increasing awareness of the learning styles of aboriginal students. The framework also aims to help all students in Ontario understand and appreciate contemporary and traditional First Nation, Métis, and Inuit traditions, cultures, and perspectives.

What is the Board’s Voluntary Self-Identification Policy?
As part of our first steps in implementing the provincial education framework, we want to have a clearer understanding of how many aboriginal students actually attend KPR schools. Developed in consultation with our local aboriginal leaders, the Board’s voluntary self-identification policy outlines how our students and parents can participate in this process.

Is this opportunity only for students who live on Reserve?
No. We know that a great many of our students and families of aboriginal ancestry do not live on the Reserve communities within our Board. It is this larger picture of all students that we are hoping to better understand.

Why should parents/guardians or students take part in the Board’s Self-Identification program?
We believe it is essential that First Nation, Métis and Inuit students are engaged and feel welcome in school, and that they see themselves and their cultures reflected in the curriculum and the school community. To help us do that, and as part of the aboriginal education framework, we would like to:

• increase our ability to respond to the learning and cultural needs of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students, and
  
• create learning opportunities for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students that support their success in school.

By self identifying, parents and students will help us secure funding to meet these goals.

How will the Board use the information it gathers through this program? Will the information be made available to the public?
Information from this program will be used to improve education. Information on individual students will never be released. As a school board, we must protect the privacy of our students. We would, however, use the information as a whole to provide extra support where needed. The Board’s Advisory Committee on Aboriginal Issues, comprised of representatives of our aboriginal communities in Peterborough and Northumberland Counties and the Municipality of Clarington, will have a key role in establishing how we use this information.

How do I self Identify?
Simply complete the accompanying registration form and return to your school, or find one using the link below.

Self Identification Registration Form (PDF, 19 KB)

I have some more questions. Who is the best person to talk to about this program?
If you would like to speak further about the Ontario First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Education Policy Framework, or the Voluntary Self Identification policy, please do not hesitate to contact our Aboriginal Education Coordinator, Cathie Edwards at, 705-742-9773 or toll-free at 877-741-4577, ext. 2195, or cathie_edwards@kprdsb.ca