Surrey School District Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement: Promoting Indigenous Education in Canada
The Surrey School District serves over 73,000 students in British Columbia, Canada. As part of its commitment to promoting Indigenous education, the district has entered into an Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement. This agreement is a collaboration between the district and local Indigenous communities to improve the educational outcomes of Indigenous students.
The Surrey School District`s Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement is based on the principles of respect, relationships, and responsibility. The agreement recognizes the need for culturally responsive education that honours and respects Indigenous history, traditions, and knowledge. It also acknowledges the importance of engaging Indigenous families and communities in the education of their children.
Through the Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement, the Surrey School District aims to improve the academic success of Indigenous students. This includes increasing high school graduation rates, improving literacy and numeracy skills, and providing opportunities for students to learn about Indigenous culture and history.
To achieve these goals, the district has implemented a number of initiatives. These include:
1. Indigenous Education Advisory Committee: The committee includes representatives from local Indigenous communities, school staff, and parents. It provides guidance and feedback on the district`s Indigenous education programs and initiatives.
2. Cultural Programs and Events: The district organizes a variety of cultural programs and events throughout the year, including Pow Wows, storytelling sessions, and traditional food tastings. These events provide students with the opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture and history.
3. Indigenous Language and Culture Programs: The district has introduced Indigenous language and culture programs, including the Hul`qumi`num Language and Culture Program, which teaches students about the language and culture of the local Coast Salish people.
4. Teacher Professional Development: The district provides professional development opportunities for teachers to learn about Indigenous perspectives, history, and culture. This helps teachers to incorporate Indigenous knowledge and traditions into their teaching practices.
The Surrey School District`s Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement is an important step towards promoting Indigenous education in Canada. By recognizing the importance of Indigenous history, traditions, and knowledge, the district is helping to create a more inclusive and respectful educational system. Through its various initiatives, the district is working towards improving the academic success of Indigenous students and building stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and the education system.