The Matawa First Nations are demanding millions in pandemic funding to make schools safe this fall.
The northern chiefs estimate that $25-million is needed for the upcoming school year to address areas of need for students in all nine communities represented by Matawa.
The detailed Matawa Emergency COVID-19 Education Response Plan includes itemized costing for the unique needs of Matawa schools that include (but are not limited to):
-Upgrading schools and staffing to meet new health and safety guidelines associated with COVID-19
-Increasing broadband connectivity (where required) to prepare schools for remote education (including consideration for low-income families unable to afford internet access and/or student learning devices)
-Providing appropriate mental health support to ensure a return to a safe and welcoming environment that supports learning
-Increased land-based learning
-Increased student transportation
-PPE supplies
-Student resources for additional home-based curriculum and learning materials
-Equipping schools with technological tools to provide instruction and professional development on use of technology
-Professional development on effective use of technology-based resources, managing students learning remotely, the ‘Flipped Classroom Approach’, cross-curricular planning, etc.
-Teacher equipment and resources that offer at home and synchronous learning opportunities to students as a regular part of their remote learning plan
Officials say the plan will be sent to the governments shortly.
Matawa Education Manager Sharon Nate says “In working with the Education Authorities in Matawa, it is clear that they are highly concerned about having no resources that would enable them to safely reopen their schools this September. The education gap cannot be widened once again by jeopardizing school years for our students.”
Constance Lake First Nation Chief Rick Allen says “While school boards in Ontario are currently canvassing parents on options for return to learning delivery models, our Education Authorities at this time barely have that option. There is no way around it, resources are needed to ensure the safety of our students. Time is running out for First Nations, there is only one and a half months left to the start of school.”
Webequie First Nation Chief Cornelius Wabasse says “The governments of Canada and Ontario must treat our students the same as all students in the country. This is not the time to focus on any perceived jurisdictional ambiguities between them when it comes to providing resources to educate First Nations students. The only focus during this coronavirus pandemic time is their safety and ensuring they can continue their studies.”
(With Files From Sheri Leviski-Kotyk)
