Minister of Education, Culture and Employment Caitlin Cleveland issued the following statement today regarding the independent investigation into education bodies in the Dehcho region:

“Over the past several months, the Government of the Northwest Territories has heard serious concerns from parents, educators, community members, and education partners in the Dehcho about governance, workplace culture, communication, and the impacts these issues have had on students, families, and staff.

When concerns reach a point where trust is breaking down and the focus on students is at risk, it is my responsibility as Minister to act. That is why I ordered an independent investigation under the Education Act, to ensure these issues were examined fairly, thoroughly, and at arm’s length.

I received the final report from the independent investigator earlier today. I want to thank the investigator for the extensive and thoughtful work that went into this report. I also want to thank the many individuals who came forward to participate in the process and share their experiences. I recognize how personal and difficult many of those conversations were.

From the outset of this investigation, participants were assured that their confidentiality would be respected, and I take that commitment seriously. The privacy of those who shared their experiences will be protected. I will carefully review the report and determine how its findings can be shared publicly in a way that maintains confidentiality while meeting the public’s expectation for transparency and accountability.

While I will be taking the time needed to carefully review and analyze the report in full, at a high level I can confirm that I agree with the recommendations in principle. However, the recommendations in this report are not directed solely at the Minister. They involve shared responsibilities, and out of respect for education partners and the collaborative work required to address these issues, I will not be advancing recommendations or responses unilaterally. It is important that we take the next steps together and determine how to move forward collectively.

I am encouraged that the report supports the continued use of external expertise to help guide this work. While the investigation was ongoing, significant efforts were already underway to address a number of the issues raised, including steps taken in response to the interim report. As part of that work, long-time northern educator Jane Arychuk was brought on to provide external support, and she has already been working with education partners to address key issues and help stabilize the system. That work has allowed progress to be made, and I am committed to building on it.

As an immediate step to help guide our next phase of work, I am pleased that Jane has agreed to continue in this role as we move forward, working with education partners.

I know many residents are eager to see progress, and I share that sense of urgency. My overarching goal is the education of children, while supporting the region to heal from this situation, address what needs to be addressed, and move forward together in a way that restores trust and keeps students at the centre of everything we do. I look forward to taking swift action where appropriate and to providing a comprehensive public update early in the new year.

Thank you to all those who continue to support students in the Dehcho and across the territory. Your commitment is valued and appreciated, and I remain focused on strengthening education governance and outcomes for the benefit of students, staff, and communities.”