December 9, 2011 - Mr. Speaker, towards the end of the 16th Assembly, I tabled the Aboriginal Student Achievement Education Plan. It was developed after broad consultation, and aims to eliminate the education gap between Aboriginal and other students. I am pleased to say that Aboriginal and education leaders endorsed the plan by signing the Education Partnership Declaration.
The plan lists the four priorities of the Aboriginal Student Achievement Initiative: early childhood and child care, family and student supports, Aboriginal language and culture curriculum and resource development, and literacy.
Mr. Speaker, this year, we are taking action on several of these priorities. To support literacy, the Aboriginal Student Achievement Initiative funded five new community libraries in the schools in Behchoko, Fort Liard, Gameti, Whati and Tuktoyaktuk.
This funding brought new research materials, books, graphic novels, picture books and magazines for children and adults into the libraries. It also allows for one member of each community to keep the libraries open after school hours for use by the public. These community members received training and support from Public Library Services staff. The Northwest Territories now has 20 public libraries, covering all regions.
The Department of Education, Culture and Employment also provided funding towards one literacy coordinator for each school division. These coordinators participated in several days of training at the beginning of the school year. ECE staff worked with them to highlight regional successes and improve literacy practices in the schools.
Funding was provided again this year to support the orientation of teachers in Aboriginal Culture, and work progressed on developing a Dene Language Curriculum.
To engage parents, teachers, and students in school, last year we implemented the first phase of a communications campaign focused on attendance at school. It was well received, and our feedback tells us the campaign has resonated with students. We are continuing the campaign this year, as we know that attendance is a key factor in education success for students. Our next steps will focus on engaging parents more fully in their children’s education. We heard many times during our consultation that the school alone is not responsible for educating students. Parents must take control of their children’s education.
Mr. Speaker, His Excellency, the Governor General has made it one of his priorities to reinforce learning and innovation to ensure Canadians have the opportunity to reach their full potential. During his visit to Fort Smith today, Mr. Johnston will be taking part in a round table discussion on the Aboriginal Student Achievement initiative to learn about one of the key ways the Government of the NWT helps our people achieve their educational goals. We must continue to believe in our students and support the Aboriginal Student Achievement Initiative, so all students can reap the benefits, bringing us closer to our goal of healthy, educated people.
Masi, Mr. Speaker.