First Nation elementary and secondary education discussion guide

Summary: This discussion guide is designed to provide a background on First Nations elementary and secondary education issues and lay the ground work for discussions on possible approaches to First Nations education legislation.This is an opportunity to share ideas from a First Nations perspective on what is required to address student outcomes and ensure a quality education that is balanced, equitable, linguistically and culturally appropriate. This guide is intended to address First Nations education from an elementary and secondary perspective. It is understood that education is lifelong and that higher education, although critical to any meaningful First Nation education dialogue, is not included in this current undertaking.We have attempted to provide an overview of K-12 education within the context of First Nations jurisdictional perspectives. This includes funding issues, partnerships, management structures and discussion of features of First Nations realities that would impact any legislative efforts. It is understood that jurisdiction will be inclusive of clear definitions of roles for First Nations, provinces, territories and the Government of Canada. The Treaty and inherent right to education will be integral components that frame the discussions envisioned herein. We invite First Nations parents, students, leaders, Elders and teachers to tell us your views based on the questions posed at the end of this guide. We encourage regional and national organizations, provinces and territories to submit viewpoints as well.