Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Minister Caitlin Cleveland met with Education Leaders in Yellowknife on January 23, 2025, the first meeting held during the 2024-2025 school year. The Education Leaders group is comprised of Board Chairs from every education body – District Education Authorities and District Education Councils – in the Northwest Territories.

Minister Cleveland provided an update on the priorities and commitments of the 20th Legislative Assembly during the in-person meeting, as well as how they align with the department’s work. The Minister also highlighted the latest developments of the National School Food Program, an agreement between the Government of Canada and Government of the Northwest Territories.

James Fulford, ECE's Deputy Minister, provided an update on the department's business plan, highlighting the ongoing implementation of school-based mental health and wellness programs and services, supporting the recruitment and retention of Indigenous languages instructors, and discussing housing needs for educators in communities.

ECE also briefed meeting attendees about the ongoing work to modernize the Education Act, including the regulatory changes and the efforts to re-engage with Indigenous Governments and education bodies on future changes to the Act. An overview of the Inclusive Schooling Review was also presented.

Education Leaders also discussed current policies and practices regarding cell phone and device use in schools. The next Education Leaders meeting will be held in June 2025.

Quote:
 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to have met with NWT education leaders for a second time as Minister of Education, Culture and Employment. It was another productive meeting, and I look forward to continued efforts to improve student outcomes across the Northwest Territories. This collaboration is vital­­­ to successfully carrying out education initiatives that will positively impact NWT students, families, and educators.”

• Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

“We appreciate the opportunity to meet regularly with Minister Cleveland and each other to collaborate on modernizing the NWT’s education system. Education leaders look forward to continuing the work of strengthening our schools and supporting our students at future meetings.”  

• David Wasylciw, Chair, NWT Education Body Chairs & Chair, Yellowknife Education District No. 1

For media requests, please contact:

Briony Grabke
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Briony_Grabke@gov.nt.ca
867-767-9352 ext. 71073

David Wasylciw
Chairperson, Yellowknife Education District No. 1
david.wasylciw@yk1.nt.ca