Minister Bennett Congratulates the Prophet River First Nation on the Completion of New School

VANCOUVER, April 27, 2016 /CNW/ - The Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, Carolyn Bennett, today congratulated the Prophet River First Nation on the completion of its new school.

The new school allows the community to expand its current grade offerings from kindergarten to grade six, up to grade 12. Beginning in September 2016, Prophet River high school students will no longer have to bus one-and-a-half hours each way to attend school. Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada provided $5.2 million to the project under its Education Infrastructure Fund. 

Budget 2016 will invest an additional $969.4 million over five years in First Nation education infrastructure, for the construction, repair and maintenance of First Nations school facilities as part of a long-term strategy to improve First Nations education infrastructure.

Quotes

"A safe and healthy learning environment where students can celebrate their culture is an essential component of a student's education success. Our Government is committed to working in genuine partnership with First Nation communities to build school facilities that foster pride, cultural identity and meets the needs of First Nation students on reserves."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs

"We the People are very proud to have our new school for our future generations. The children are very excited to start in September 2016. The Nation can state that we fought for and waited for this school for years. We are very thankful that the Government has heard our cries for proper education and a safe new school."

Chief Lynette Tsakoza,
Prophet River First Nation

Quick facts

• Prophet River First Nation, located 100 kilometres south of Fort Nelson, British Columbia, has 272 members, approximately 110 of whom live on reserve.
• The 709 m² school features four classrooms, a computer room and a resource centre. Physical education classes will be offered at the community's adjacent multi-purpose building, which includes a gymnasium and outdoor playing fields.
• With the new school, the First Nation projects its enrolment will increase from 14 to 32 students.

Additional links

Prophet River First Nations
First Nation Enhanced Education Infrastructure Fund

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SOURCE Government of Canada

Sabrina Williams, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, 819-997-0002; Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160