How are we working together?
The Ministry of Education and Child Care will engage with the First Nations Education Steering Committee prior to engaging more broadly with First Nations rightsholders.
Are there challenges?
Due to the diversity of First Nations languages in B.C., significant resources will be required to complete this action.
Highlights
In alignment with a distinctions-based approach, the ministry has provided direction to Superintendents that the language, culture, heritage, history, and land-based connections of the First Nation(s) whose territory a school district is located are honoured, acknowledged, and taught. Historically, Boards of Education have decided which languages will be offered in their school districts. The passing of the School Amendment Act, 2023 (Bill 40) will now require that Boards engage with Indigenous Education Councils to ensure that the learning of local First Nation languages and cultures are prioritized.