Chiefs of Ontario launches new education agreement resources

The Chiefs of Ontario have announced the launch of new Education Agreement (EA) resources. Chiefs of Ontario explains that the Government of Ontario amended the Education Act and its regulations in 2019, but that these amendments did not eliminate the need for EAs altogether as they still leave First Nation schools underfunded. EAs help to formalize relationships and agreements between a First Nation and the Board, hold the Board to meeting certain standards and providing specific languages or cultural courses, and more to help achieve high-quality, equitable educational services. The resources feature a dedicated toolkit for negotiating EAs with Ontario school boards, as well as an informational video, an overview document, and an agreement template. “Historically, Ontario schools have not been successful in providing equitable education services to First Nations students,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “Through these agreements, First Nations and provincial school boards will be able to support the cultural connections, diversity, and unique needs of First Nations students while promoting success for future generations.”