Anishinabek Education System celebrates official launch
NIPISSING FIRST NATION (October 2, 2018) – The Kinoomaadziwin Education Body (KEB) opens the doors of its new head office location to the public today, at the official launch of the Anishinabek Education System (AES).
More than 80 guests, including dignitaries, leadership, educators, students and citizens from the Anishinabek Nation, Canada and Ontario, are expected to gather at the opening celebration in Nipissing First Nation, on October 2, 2018.
The long-anticipated launch of the AES honours the April 1 effective date of the system, the establishment of a permanent head office location, as well as the first academic year of self-governance for 23 Participating First Nations (PFN).
“We are extremely excited to continue the journey that has been built upon many years of hard work and collective Anishinaabe vision,” said Kelly Crawford, the Director of Education for the KEB. “Together, our work will be unprecedented and will move the Nation forward.”
Under the direction of a 12-member Board of Directors, the KEB is the administrative body of the AES. Among its main functions, the KEB ensures the implementation of the Anishinabek Nation Education Agreement with Canada, as well as the implementation of the Master Education Agreement with Ontario.
The partnerships formed with Canada and Ontario, through the agreements of the AES, are unique within Canada and unprecedented in the province. Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Carolyn Bennett, is a champion advocate of the federal partnership.
“This is a monumental step toward greater self-determination for the 23 Anishinabek First Nations and a brighter future. Anishinabek students will have all the tools to succeed and thrive as they are able to stay proudly connected to their Anishinaabe culture and language.”
The day-long celebration is being hosted at the KEB’s newly-constructed head office on Nipissing First Nation, where guests will tour the new facility, meet with the KEB’s directors and staff members, and hear from dignitaries before an official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Guests will then gather for a feast and traditional closing at Nbisiing Secondary School, in Nipissing First Nation’s community of Duchesnay.
Special moments throughout the day will be shared on social media, via the Anishinabek Education System’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.
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For more information contact:
Andrea Crawford
Communications & Operations Manager
Phone: 705-845-3634 Email: andrea.crawford@a-e-s.ca