Administrative Procedure 202

FIRST NATIONS, MÉTIS AND INUIT EDUCATION PROGRAMMING

Background

First Nations, Métis or Inuit students will be encouraged to self-identify and to achieve the grade level outcomes in the program of studies. Students who complete Grade Nine at Valhalla Community School are supported in their transitions to high schools within the geographic area. The School believes in the importance of giving voice to and engaging the Indigenous community in decisions that affect the education of their children.
The Board, Superintendent, Principal and staff are committed to increasing the achievement of all students, including First Nation, Métis and Inuit students. To that end, VCS provides opportunities for staff, students and the community to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of First Nation, Métis and Inuit histories, cultures, languages and lifestyles.

Procedures

1. First Nations, Métis and Inuit educational programming and services will operate in accordance with Alberta Education policy, guidelines and regulations to ensure high quality inclusive and culturally respectful learning and teaching opportunities.
2. The Principal shall strengthen collaborative processes between school staff, students, parents, communities and other stakeholders, to support the attendance and improved educational outcomes of students who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit.
3. The Principal shall report progress annually on the achievement of students who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit and the strategies used to increase student achievement.
4. The Principal shall ensure staff increase their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures and languages, and support all students to do the same.
5. School staff shall recognize and respect the role, participation and expertise of Elders and cultural advisors in the school, classrooms and at School-sponsored events or celebrations.
6. The Principal shall permit the reasonable use of spiritual practices as part of celebrations or ceremonies to recognize the importance of spirituality as shared by local Elders.The Principal shall advise parents of spiritual practices which may be included in celebrations or ceremonies at the school and respect the decision of parents regarding their children’s participation or observance, keeping in mind that building understanding, supporting reconciliation and demonstrating respect for differences are desired outcomes.
7. The Principal shall ensure that students and staff who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit have access to culturally sensitive support services when requested.
8. The School will provide support, resources and professional learning to school-based staff and liaisons to support the learning and achievement of students who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit.

References: Section 3, 4, 7, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 25, 26, 32, 33, 52, 53, 196, 197, 222, 225
Education Act Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report Guide to Education ECS to Grade 12
Alberta First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Policy Framework
Memorandum of Understanding for First Nations Education in Alberta (Alberta Education, 2013) Successful Practices in First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education (Alberta Education, 2012)