Minister Philpott participates in a historic ceremony to celebrate the creation of the Maskwacîs Cree school system

MASKWACÎS, AB, May 18, 2018 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada believes every First Nation child deserves the best start in life, and is committed to working in partnership with First Nations to support students in achieving academic success.

Today, the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services attended a historic ceremony at the Maskwacîs Bear Park in Treaty 6 territory. This event marks the official agreement between the Government of Canada and the four Maskwacîs Cree First Nations in the establishment of the new Maskwacîs Cree school system.

This new agreement represents an important step in building true local control of education in Maskwacîs. It will also benefit both students and teachers with a culturally vibrant learning and teaching environment, one that supports Cree language and culture, personal and social development, and high academic achievement.

Quotes

"It is with great pride that I could be a part of this historic ceremony to highlight the Maskwacîs education authority in Treaty 6 territory.  I want to congratulate the community for their tremendous efforts in making this new education authority a reality − a project led by First Nations for First Nations. Your vision will help promote Cree culture and will benefit students as well as the entire community."

The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

Quick Facts

• The agreement will enable the Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission to provide education programming and supports to a total of over 3,100 students in Treaty 6 territory.
• The Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission will also administer the Education Service Agreements for the four surrounding school districts.
• Maskwacîs are Cree First Nation communities located in central Alberta, home to four distinct Cree Nations: Ermineskin Cree Nation, Louis Bull Tribe, Montana First Nation and Samson Cree Nation.

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SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada

media may contact: Rachel Rappaport, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, 819-934-2796; Media Relations, Indigenous Services Canada, 819-953-1160