Engagement Framework Agreement signed to benefit First Nation students in Regional Education Council 1 of the Anishinabek Education System
BIIGTIGONG NISHNAABEG (May 6, 2024) – More than 100 guests gathered at a special event in education hosted in Biigtigong Nishnaabeg on May 6, 2024, which saw the Regional Education Council 1 (REC 1) of the Anishinabek Education System and the Superior-Greenstone District School Board come together to sign an historic Engagement Framework Agreement.
The Agreement was designed to foster collaboration and cooperation in making significant decisions that directly impact First Nation students in the communities of Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, Long Lake #58 First Nation, Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg First Nation, and Biigtigong Nishnaabeg who attend schools of the Superior-Greenstone District School Board.
The signing ceremony took place at the new Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Endzhi-gkinoohmaading, marking the beginning of a new era of partnership and commitment to the educational success of all students.
When asked about the Agreement, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Educator Director Lisa Michano-Courchene highlighted the importance of the lengthy process of arriving at the framework.
“We learned so much about our systems, how they are different and how they are the same, and about our challenges and the things that come easy,” Michano-Courchene expressed. “We learned about each other outside of the hierarchy. These were things that could not have been learned by a phone call.”
The Engagement Framework Agreement is rooted in the principles of inclusion, collaboration, and relationship-based leadership. It echoes the values upheld by the Superior-Greenstone District School Board.
Nicole Morden-Cormier, Director of Education for the school board, shared that “this event is the culmination of many hours spent together, first understanding the truth and the harms of the past, and then working to ensure that all parties understand what it means to truly engage.”
“We look forward to ensuring that this agreement is fully implemented in the Superior-Greenstone District School Board,” Morden-Cormier continued.
This groundbreaking initiative reflects the commitment of the REC 1 communities and the Superior-Greenstone District School Board to work hand-in-hand to create an inclusive, equitable, and enriching educational experience for all students. It reinforces the belief that education is a shared responsibility and a pathway to a brighter future.
Manager of Indigenous Education for the school board Shy-Anne Bartlett added that “it is one thing to talk about Truth and Reconciliation, but it is another to take action. It is a true honour to be part of this amazing collaboration that helps us to move forward in a good way.”
Leaders, educators, parents, and community members attended the ceremony to witness the historic signing, demonstrating the collective dedication to the success and well-being of First Nation students in REC 1 communities.
The Kinoomaadziwin Education Body (KEB) is the central administrative structure for the Anishinabek Education System. The organization is lead by a 14-member Board of Directors and takes direction from the Participating First Nations. The KEB supports the implementation of educational priorities and manages education relationships with Canada and Ontario.
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For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Andrea Crawford
Communications and Operations Manager
Kinoomaadziwin Education Body
andrea.crawford@a-e-s.ca
705-845-3634 ext. 209