First Nation Métis and Inuit Self-Identification

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 Indigenous students guided by the following principles:

• Excellence and Accountability

• Equity and Respect for Diversity

• Inclusiveness, Cooperation, and Shared Responsibility

• Respect for Constitutional and Treaty Rights

What is the Board's Voluntary Self-Identification Policy?

As part of our approach in implementing the provincial education framework, we want to have a clearer understanding of how many Indigenous students attend KPR schools. Developed in consultation with our local Indigenous leaders, the Board's voluntary self-identification policy outlines how our students and parents can participate in this process. Read the KPR Self-ID Policy for more details.

Is this opportunity only for students who live in First Nation communities?

No. It is for all Indigenous students. We know many of our students and families of Indigenous ancestry live in every community 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 Indigenous 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 to provide extra support where needed. KPRs Indigenous Education Advisory Committee, composed of representatives of our Indigenous 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?

Students or parents/guardians wanting to self-identify as First Nations, Metis or Inuit can do so during registration, when information verification forms are sent home each Fall, or at another time directly through the school where the student attends. Please call the school office.

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 department office at: Toll Free (877) 741-4577, Extension 2602. Or contact one of the members of our Indigenous Education Team directly.