How are we working together?
The Ministry of Education and Child Care has consulted with First Nations and Modern Treaty Nations on Indigenous Education Councils, engaged with Métis Nation BC, and co-developed work with the First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC). The Indigenous Education Council Ministerial Order, policy, and template terms of reference, which were co-developed with the FNESC, have been finalized and are being implemented.
Are there challenges?
No challenges identified.
Highlights
The passing of Bill 40, the School Amendment Act, 2023 (School Act), on November 8, 2023, introduces a provincial standard for Indigenous Education Councils to ensure that boards of education meaningfully engage with First Nations, Treaty First Nations, and Indigenous communities, and that Indigenous Peoples have input into decisions affecting Indigenous students. These changes will support better education outcomes and attendance for First Nations and other Indigenous students attending provincial public schools, and more effective relationships between boards of education and First Nations.
Boards of education are in the process of establishing and maintaining Indigenous Education Councils. Indigenous Education Councils advise the board; advise on grants provided under the School Act in relation to Indigenous students; and approve plans, spending and reporting of targeted grants related to Indigenous students.