tral First en N C a ti t Nurture o s n East Central a Empower s E Future

Tre les of aty Artic Education Partnership

E Issue 1 March 2018 d ip u h ca rs ti e on Par tn Interim President of the on the strengths and weaknesses in the present Indigenous school system. “It Partnership Board has a Plan became natural for me to think about the system and develop concepts to address the Randy Constant is a member of the James deficiencies, and to think about how to find Smith Nation and Principal of Bernard solutions,” said Mr. Constant. Constant Community School. Mr. Constant is the Interim President of the East Central Looking back at his time while attending Introducing the interim board First Nations Education Partnership, and he schools on-reserve, Mr. Constant comments wants members of the three communities that up-to-date technology was always an of the East Central First to know that he has a plan. According to issue, where we were in the never ending Nations Education Partnership Mr. Constant, “The theme of the plan is cycle of playing catch-up. “The internet was to reach out to the members of the three much slower back then,” he said with a laugh. In the late fall of 2016, there was an participating First Nations by providing Besides being an educator, Mr. Constant and expressed interest in investigating the merits membership factual and relevant information his wife Wendy Constant have two daughters, of establishing an “Education Partnership” and seeking their ideas on what education one who is 22 years-old and the other who amongst a number of interested First Nations, transformation means, which will be in nine years-old. The youngest daughter including Cumberland House Cree Nation, addressed in new funding arrangements with attends Bernard Constant Community School, Shoal Lake Cree Nation and James Smith the Government of .” and as a parent he has identified strengths Cree Nation. The purpose was to explore The principal has been working in the field of and weaknesses in the current funding assuming governance and management education since he graduated from Bernard formula. His wife Ms. Constant works in the of education. Following discussions with Constant Community School with a Grade Nursery Program at the school. representatives from Indian and Northern 12 in 1988. He worked at odd jobs after Affairs Canada (INAC) (now Indigenous his Grade 12 graduation, then returned to In explaining how the community of James Services Canada), the Chiefs supported Bernard Constant Community School as a Smith Cree Nation became involved in the the development of a proposal that was volunteer. After working as a volunteer, he Partnership, Mr. Constant explains it in this submitted to INAC in January 2017. became an education assistant, and then the manner. “Vernon Greyeyes was the principal of Bernard Constant Community School for There were delays in the approval of the school’s community liaison officer. the past two years until he became ill. proposal. Following face to face meetings Always looking to learn more and wanting to Continued on next page... with INAC representatives in June 2017, try something new, Mr. Constant then went the proposal was ultimately approved back to school, attending the University of in September, following INAC initiated Regina and obtaining his bachelor of arts modifications. The flow of resources was degree in 2001. “This gave me that inner finalized in October of 2017. confidence to continue, as I knew I could Following the final approval and the provision succeed,” noted Mr. Constant. In 2003, of funds, an interim board was proposed. Mr. Constant graduated with a bachelor of It was approved by the leadership, and education from the University of Regina and duly incorporated in the fall of 2017. The started teaching at a First Nation. interim board is composed of the following: In the fall of 2005, he returned to his home President Randy Constant and Secretary- community accepting a position of vice- treasurer Faye Head from James Smith Cree principal. Last year he became the Principal Nation, Principal Abraham Amponsah and of Bernard Constant Community School. Marcia Seeseequasis of Cumberland House His time at Bernard Constant Community Interim President and Cree Nation, and Vice-principal Harold (Butch) representative Randy Constant of the East Central First School has provided Mr. Constant with an Carriere and Councillor Eldon Whitecap. Nations Education Partnership. invaluable source of knowledge and insights Inside

Introduction...... 1 Interim President...... 1 Interim Board Members...... 2-4 History of First Nation Education in Canada...... 4 Message from the Chiefs...... 5-7 The Benefits of the Education Partnership...... 8 Terminology for Education Services...... 8 In Memorium Vernon Greyeyes...... 9 Graphic Identifier for the Partnership...... 9 Communications and Consultations...... 10 Budget Considerations for the Partnership...... 11 Introduction to current schools...... 12 East Central First Nations Education Partnership Board Meeting: The interim board of directors of the Partnership meets on a regular basis, and often chiefs and other individuals are invited to attend. For further information...... 12 ...Continued from previous page During this time, Indigenous Interim Board Member and administration. Still not finished with his parental involvement in the decision-making capacity for other First Nations Services Canada was funding education, Mr. Amponsah went back to process,” said Mr. Amponsah. during the last ten years. proposals that were exploring Principal Abraham Amponsah Carlton University, gaining a master’s of a new way to fund Education has been a senior education social work degree. He then attended St. The benefits of the Partnership according “I love my job, and I enjoy of First Nation children in their Paul’s College which is federated with the to Mr. Amponsah will be more funding working with all the staff at communities.” administrator at First Nations University of Ottawa, and gained a diploma for text books, and more computers, Cumberland House Cree in social communications in 1980. especially laptops, and more software, Nation,” said Ms. Seeseequasis. “Mr. Greyeyes and myself for many years, and says of especially various programs and special “I like working for the collaborated together as a team, the Partnership “Let’s move After finishing his university studies, he teaching resources. “The industrial arts membership of Cumberland House and we each had our specific areas moved to Calgary and worked as a child area will be greatly enhanced through the as the members are friendly and we worked in,” said Mr. Constant. forward with the Partnership” care supervisor at a group home operated Partnership, as there will be an increased appreciative of all the staff. “Eventually in tandem with a consultant, by the Government. Thereafter Mr. number of vocations taught.” a proposal was submitted to Indigenous Abraham Amponsah, is one of Cumberland Amponsah started his long career in the area A member of the Beardy’s and Services Canada early in 2017,” explained Mr. House Cree Nation’s Interim Board members of education administration. “I am 100 percent behind the Partnership,” Okemanis First Nation, she and her partner Constant. “While the proposal was in Ottawa, of the East Central First Nations Education said Mr. Amponsah. Paul Okemaysim, also from Beardy’s and Mr. Greyeyes was diagnosed with lung cancer, Partnership. He is also the principal of the His first position was at Kasabonika Lake Okemanis, have raised six children who are and he passed away in late September. In Nistro Awasisak Memorial School and has First Nation, which is located 448 kilometres now all adults between the ages of 22 and 29 August due to the illness of Mr. Greyeyes, I been a senior administrator in First Nation northeast of Sioux Lookout in Ontario, a Interim board member Marcia years-old. schools for more 25 years. Mr. Amponsah remote community accessible by air and was appointed to continue moving forward Faye Head from the James Smith Cree Nation is the Seeseequasis believes in First was appointed to the Interim Board by the a winter road. Then he went further west She attended school at Beardy’s and with the Partnership,” said Mr. Constant. interim Secretary-treasurer of the East Central First Okemanis First Nation and graduated from Nations Education Partnership Interim Board. Cumberland House Chief and Council. out near Prince George in British Columbia Nation control of Education Since he became the Interim President, Mr. to be the principal of the Tsay Keh Dene the Indian Institute Born in Aburi, which is about 45 kilometres of Technologies with a diploma in Constant says he has been focused on learning Presently Ms. Head works in the James Smith School in the years 1991-1993. In 1994 he Marcia Seeseequasis is an interim board northeast of Accra in the African Country management studies. about education systems. He has come to Cree Nation Administration Office on the was the principal at the Hatchet Lake First member on the East Central First Nations of Ghana, Mr. Amponsah was raised by view the Partnership as both a challenge James Smith Cree Nation. Eventually she Nation School. The school at Bunibonibee Education Partnership representing his grandparents while his parents lived in Ms. Seeseequasis was appointed to the and a tremendous opportunity for the three says the Partnership will have its own offices, Cree Nation, formerly known as Oxford Cumberland House Cree Nation, and she London, England. He attended the Aburi interim board by the Chief and Council of the First Nations to move forward, as all five of probably in . House First Nation in northern firmly believes in creating a good education Cumberland House Cree Nation. the other interim board members want to Kemp Elementary School and then moved was where Mr. Amponsah went next, system for students in the community. consider the needs of the communities first Ms. Head is a member of the Peter Chapman to London. In London he went to Hendon and he administered at the school in the It is important for the Partnership to keep and foremost. Band. She was raised on the James Smith Comprehensive School in northwest London, Manitoba’s Interlake on the Kinonjeoshtegon “Yes, I support First Nation control of in mind the objective of quality as it moves Cree Nation, attending Bernard Constant completing Grades 9 through 12. First Nation also known as the Jackhead education, and believe that First Nation along according to Ms. Seeseequasis. “The Presently, the board is in the process of Community School and graduated in 1988 First Nation. The last Manitoba First control is essential to improving the success After completing his Grade 12, Mr. Partnership that will create an education reaching out to members and explaining how with a Grade 12. Nation School that he administered at was of the system for children,” said Ms. Amponsah studied international affairs at system that meets our customs, standards the process will work, along with seeking the Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation near Seeseequasis. and traditions, and we need to incorporate After graduating from Grade 12, Ms. Head the University College in London, where he views of the parents and the communities. Riding Mountain National Park. in the system a curriculum based on our enrolled in the Saskatchewan Indian Institute obtained a diploma in international affairs. “We are examining what the transformation First Nation beliefs and values,” she said. of Technologies at the Prince Albert Campus He then enrolled in the London School of will mean, and how the new funding After working as a senior education “The interim board does not need to look attending classes in business administration. Journalism, taking a course in diplomatic arrangements with the Government of Canada administrator for First Nations, he changed far to see the the successes that have been Ms. Head graduated in 1991 with a diploma journalism where he gained a diploma after will benefit the participating First Nations.” career paths and started a business in occurring in the in business administration. one year. Winnipeg. Mr. Amponsah established a According to Mr. Constant, the board wants group home for persons with disabilities Mi’kmaq Education System in Nova Ms. Head began her working career in finance After obtaining his journalism diploma, to take the time to ensure the system that that was on contract with the Manitoba Scotia, and the Manitoba First Nation in the early 1990s when she was employed by Mr. Amponsah went to work for a famous is proposed by the partnership is right Government, and this lasted three years. Resource Centre’s Education Board which is the Prince Albert Grand Council. She worked department store in London, Selfridges on to meet the goals and aspirations of the establishing a First Nation Education System at the Prince Albert Grand Council until 2003. Oxford Street. communities. “Over the next 18 months He returned to the education field, for nine First Nations. These models work or so the board will be exploring processes After 2003, she worked in finance in the becoming the principal at Montreal Lake Mr. Amponsah then immigrated to Canada well, and the East Central First Nations for identifying strengths and weaknesses, private sectors. Cree Nation for three years. His next in 1968 at the age of 32 years-old and Education Partnership will look at these listening to the membership and then making stop was in Leaf Rapids, where he was a settled in Ottawa. He then began work successes and others while exploring the recommendations to the Councils of the Ms. Head and her husband Alvin Sanderson superintendent with the province. at a graphics firm and enrolled in Carlton best options for the three First Nations in the three First Nations. We plan to keep the raised four children who are now adults. University, obtaining a bachelor of arts in partnership.” communities informed as we move along.” Their youngest daughter Brogan graduated Mr. Amponsah returned to Alberta, from Bernard Constant Community School in political science. After this, he attended working as a senior education administrator McMaster University in Hamilton and The primary benefit of funding for First 2016 with a Grade 12. for the Stoney Tribe for two years, There will be more Nations’ Education will finally be coming to obtained a bachelor of education degree. then administered at the in East Central First Nations Education Partnership Interim the First Nations, and the three First Nations According to Ms. Head, she believes the Since Mr. Amponsah had no immediate Alberta, the Pelican Lake First Nation in Board Member Marcia Seeseequasis representing programming under the will decide what is best in terms of education Partnership will be strong, and assist students job prospects, he moved back to Ottawa Saskatchewan and again for the Stoney Cumberland House Cree Nation. for their children. in getting a better education. “Through the and attended the University of Ottawa Tribe at Eden Valley. Partnership Partnership, more money will be spent on obtaining a master’s degree in education Education for First Nation students,” said His last two senior education administrator One of the Shoal Lake Cree Nation Interim Partnership Board Member Ms. Head. “When the Partnership begins positions prior to Cumberland House Cree One of the roles of the board is to oversee Board Members is Councillor Eldon to deliver the complete Education Program, Nation were Sweatgrass First Nation in the informing of the membership of the three Whitecap, who enjoys working on the knows Finances graduating students will have more options.” Saskatchewan, and at Hobbema for the First Nations in the Partnership, Cumberland education portfolio. Councillor Whitecap Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission. House Cree Nation, James Smith Cree Nation was appointed to the board by the Chief One of the East Central First Nations “Education is really important in today’s and Shoal Lake Cree Nation. and the other Shoal Lake Cree Nation Education Partnership Interim Board of world,” said Ms. Head. “If you want to make From his long and varied career in the “The interim board will be guiding the Councillors. Prior to holding the education Directors knows finances and has worked your mark in the world today, you need field of education administration, Mr. Partnership as it moves towards its goal portfolio, Councillor Whitecap held the in the area for over 20 years. Faye Head is education, especially learning about all the Amponsah is eminently qualified to offer of creating an independent First Nation economic portfolio and the social portfolio. the Director of Finance at James Smith Cree new technologies.” an opinion on the Partnership, and he says, organization responsible for education in the Nation and has been in the position since “He is 100 percent behind the Partnership Councillor Whitecap believes that the three communities,” she said. 2011. On the Partnership Interim Board, developing its own organization to variety of education programming under Ms. Head is the Secretary-Treasurer. administer education to the three Ms. Seeseequasis works for the the Partnership will increase because the First Nations.” Cumberland House Cree Nation as the funding will increase. “At the Shoal Cree Ms. Head was appointed to the East Central Partnership website address: expert resource manager, also called Nation’s Wacihk Education Complex, we First Nations Partnership Board by the Chief According to Mr. Amponsah, in the current the band manager. She is responsible used to offer classes in physical education and Council of the James Smith Cree Nation. education system, funding creates a number for securing funding for the Cumberland and industrial arts or shops,” said Mr. She enjoys working for the Partnership, and www.ecfnep.ca of problems. “There is an inherent lack House Cree Nation from the various Whitecap. “However, due to a lack of her position involves ensuring invoices are of funding, and because of the lack of East Central First Nations Education Partnership Interim funding agencies. Since August 15, 2017, financial resources, we had to cut those paid on time by issuing various cheques, funding, a shortage of teachers. There is Currently under Construction Board Member Abraham Amponsah represents the she has worked for Cumberland House classes, as we could not afford the salaries along with taking notes at board meetings. occasional political interference by Ottawa, Cumberland House Cree Nation. Mr. Amponsah is also Cree Nation, and has worked in a similar of the teachers. the principal of Nistro Awasisak Memorial School. and finally a system that does not allow Continued on next page...

2 3 ...Continued from previous page Those types of classes are and the youngest six. Three of the five 12. As a couple, they have raised four grown developing their own approach important to the students at children are attending school with one in children. to education Governance and Shoal Lake Cree Nation.” university, three in the Grades below 12, management. and one working in security. “My wife is a Mr. Carriere loves the outdoors and spends It is important that the Another classroom subject teacher at the Wacihk Education Complex, much of his hobby time doing activities such East Central First Nations where Councillor Whitecap and we are always stressing to our children as fishing, hunting, outfitting and spending Education Partnership believes the Partnership will the importance of education and gaining time at his cabin. “I enjoy solitary activities (ECFNEP) recognize the do better is the Cree language. education skills,” commented Councillor where I can be alone which gives me time to importance of moving forward “Under the Partnership we will Whitecap. unwind,” he said. be able to offer classes in the Cree on behalf of the participating language, and this will help our “Education is more important now than “The First Nations, Cumberland House Cree First Nations. There is a need to community retain and increase the when I was in school, and you need Nation, James Smith Cree Nation and Shoal ensure that the current activities use of the Cree Language. Now our education skills on your resume. It is almost Cree Nation are fortunate, as the Partnership of the ECFNEP are recognized and students and other young members are impossible to start a career without a is a fresh start and an opportunity to turn the honoured by INAC, AFN and the FSIN. In speaking a mixing of English and Cree, a strong education skill set,” said Councillor tide for Indigenous education,” according this regard, the ECFNEP wants to develop language that is known as ‘Cree-English.’ Whitecap. “The goal of the interim board to Mr. Carriere. “Educated individuals are their approach, and model and negotiate I don’t understand ‘Cree-English’ but is to give the students of the Partnership sitting on the interim board, and they will an agreement with INAC to have their what I know is that this mixing of the two the opportunity to get on the path to be in charge of exploring options for the partnership operational. In fact, all groups languages is watering down the Cree developing a strong education skill set.” communities to pursue on Education. There currently engaged in a Structural Readiness language.” will be no politicians on the final board; process should be recognized and the education system should be guided by supported in finalizing their approach and We are entering a historic educators, not politicians.” negotiating an agreement with INAC. time, says Harold Carriere History of a quarter of a Harold Carriere wants the membership of Chiefs Support the Shoal Lake Cree Nation to know that as century of the Indian Affairs one of their representatives, he has their best approach to Indigenous Partnership interests in mind while sitting on the board. Education “I view my responsibility on the board as The Harper government provided access groups began to develop their approach making sure the 22Partnership in keeps the best to funding for Indian Education through to governing education. This invitation Over the last 25 years, Indigenous and Chief Wally Burns strongly interests of the communities in mind when proposal driven initiatives. This approach formed the basis for an initiative entitled Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) (now making decisions,” said Mr. Carriere. was established to ensure accountability. “Structural Readiness.” Various groups believes the Partnership called Indigenous Services Canada) has There was very limited recognition that of First Nations across Canada have been The interim board member for Shoal Lake been continuously changing their approach Interim Board has the right First Nations’ education was underfunded. participating in establishing their own Cree Nation, who prefers to be called related to K to 12 education funding. The Harper government initiated several education governance and management staff to do the job ‘Butch’, is from the village of Cumberland national program reviews that led to delays approach, and negotiating adequate House, and is the vice-principal of Shoal The Royal Commission on Aboriginal in addressing the increasing underfunding funding to operate their model. Lake Cree Nation’s Wacihk Education Peoples resulted in an initiative called “Gathering Strength.” The initiative of First Nations schools. East Central First Nations Education Partnership Interim Complex. He was appointed to the interim Initially the Trudeau government carried on Board Member and Councillor Eldon Whitecap. resulted in piece meal funding based board by the Chief and Council of the Shoal Ultimately, the Harper government with the Structural Readiness initiative. In on proposals. The amount of financial Lake Cree Nation. introduced an initiative entitled “First Saskatchewan there are six groups of First resources for education was limited because Nation Student Support Program” (FNSSP). Nations developing their own approach to Councillor Whitecap stresses that the new He has been a teacher for 20 years and of the challenges in reducing the national This initiative required that groups of First education governance and management. Partnership will be open to new education has spent 13 years teaching at Shoal Lake deficit, which resulted in cuts to various concepts that will be based on the cultural, Nations develop and submit three year Cree Nation. departmental budgets. INAC was not cut, Unfortunately, INAC did not clarify their customs, and traditions. “For example, proposals to improve education services but a two percent cap was established as a policy framework in a timely manner. This fishing, hunting and trapping are values of Mr. Carriere’s academic background has to member First Nations. A cumbersome temporary measure pending the finalization delay in developing a policy framework the Shoal Lake Cree Nation that younger focused on education. He holds an arts process of approvals and changing of increased funding for First Nations resulted in the Assembly of First Nations members have been losing,” noted degree in native studies from the University priorities did not address the need for through the “Kelowna Accord.” The (AFN) assuming more involvement in Councillor Whitecap. “If parents desire of Saskatchewan, a bachelor of education stable funding, comparable at a minimum Kelowna Accord was not approved by the developing education policy framework it the Wacihk Education Complex at the from the same university, and is working on to funding received by provincial school Harper government and the two percent by setting up a process that was approved Shoal Lake Cree Nation, the Partnership his master’s thesis at the U of S in the field of divisions. This initiative was an attempt cap was made permanent, while other at their annual meeting in Niagara in the can include in the curriculum fishing, Northern Governance and Development. to provide second level and targeted departments received increases. summer of 2015. There appears to be an hunting and trapping so that young people program services to member First Nations Mr. Carriere and his wife Anna Carriere have initiative that is centred at the AFN and can continue the tradition of developing a through the back door. been married for 34 years. His wife teaches Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Chief Wally Burns of the James Smith Cree Nation. relationship with the animals, the land and at Charlebois Community School in the village While the FNSSP initiative provided some (FSIN) level that may place INAC in a the water.” of Cumberland House. Mr. Carriere teaches increased level of services to First Nation position of not approving the continuation Chief Wally Burns strongly believes the language arts (English) in Grades 10, 11 and schools, the Harper government saw it as a of the groups currently engaged in The interim board member and education Partnership Interim Board has the right staff transition to new legislation in the form of developing their own education approach. portfolio holder was born 44 years ago to do the job. in the Carrott River Hospital. He was Bill C-33. Bill C-33 was developed internally There is a lack of clarity regarding whether raised at the Shoal Lake Cree Nation, and by the government. Many First Nations James Smith Cree Nation’s Wally Burns INAC and the AFN will recognize the current attended school on-reserve at Shoal Lake. viewed this legislation as over controlling, thinks that educators should be developing First Nations groups developing their own and INAC and the leader of the AFN were education systems, and he believes that approach or will develop new approaches. “I dropped out of school after Grade 11, challenged strongly, and the Bill was taken the East Central First Nations Education There is an anticipated Memorandum to as I wanted to get out in the workforce off the table. It is obvious that central Partnership Interim Board staff have the Cabinet that is under development with and do something,” he said. “I began my agencies including the Privy Council Office abilities and skills to do the task. work career as a firefighter for the province and Treasury Board were focused on control input from the AFN that will make decisions when I was 18 and worked at this until I and excessive accountability. on behalf of the groups currently developing “Education is a must now a days. You need was 37 years-of-age.” their own approach to education governance Grade 12 to move forward and consider Recognizing that Bill C-33 was a mistake, and management. There has been little the different opportunities ahead in life,” After his firefighting days, Councillor the Harper Government invited several consultation with the groups developing said Chief Burns. “The lack of funding for Whitecap decided to run for Council at organizations to submit their own model their own approach. In fact in Saskatchewan, Indigenous Education has taken a toll at the Shoal Lake Cree Nation. “I was not and approach to governing and managing K INAC representatives from Ottawa and James Smith, we need a variety of classes, successful on my first try, but at age 40 in to 12 education. Several groups submitted the region had to inform the groups of especially in the sciences and industrial 2014 I was elected to Council.” proposals, and work commenced by the activities of the AFN and the FSIN in arts areas. At one time, at Bernard these groups to develop their approach the absence of internal consultation. This Constant Community School, we had all the Mr. Whitecap and his wife, Cherie have to governing education. Proposals were absence of consultation has frustrated First five children, with the oldest being 21 and East Central First Nations Education Partnership Interim equipment for our science labs. Board Member Harold (Butch) Carriere. submitted by various groups and these Nation leaders currently participating in Continued on next page...

4 5 ...Continued from previous page Slowly, due to lack of consistent Chief Calvin Sanderson fully Cumberland House and graduated from maintenance person at the funding, our science classes Grade 12 in 1993. After high school, local privately owned store at have been scaled back.” supports the Partnership Chief Chaboyer took a number of post- Shoal Lake Cree Nation. secondary computer courses at Northlands Through the Partnership, Calvin Sanderson is the Chief of the College, then took the heavy equipment At the store he worked his more funding will be directed Chakastapaysin Band of the Cree Nation, and operator course at Saskatchewan Institute way up the employment right in the schools. Worries he says, “My Councillors; Barry Sanderson, of Applied Science and Technology (now ladder to become first a about where funds would Florence Sanderson, Lyle Opoonechaw, Skye called Sask Polytechnic). casual, then part-time and come from for wear and tear and Sanderson and himself fully support the East finally full-time worker. The next properly maintaining the structure Central First Nations Education Partnership. With his experience as a heavy equipment step for him was assistant manager, will no longer exist, according to Education is one of my priorities for Chief and operator, he worked in the community and then finally manager by 2008. Chief Burns. Council and the members we represent.” operating heavy equipment. After a few years, he then drove an 18-wheel truck The next phase of Mr. Bear’s career “Now the three member First Nations The results of the recent election at and trailer, hauling propane for Northern began when he was asked by members receive second level services from the Chakastapaysin Band of the Cree Nation Resource Trucking out of Saskatoon. Mr. of his community to run for Council. Prince Albert Grand Council, (PAGC) and resulted in Chief Sanderson being re- Chaboyer ran for public office and was Shoal Lake Cree Nation conducts its some of the funding from the government elected. Chief Sanderson has served a elected a Councillor in 2012. Three years elections every three years, and in 2008 remains with PAGC as an administration number of terms as Chief, and began his he was elected to a Councillor position. Peter Chapman Band Chief Robert Head. Cumberland House Cree Nation Chief Rene Chaboyer. later, he was re-elected and became the fee. PAGC should be enabling its member career in politics when he was elected as an Vice-chief of Cumberland House Cree The young Councillor was assigned the First Nations and supporting them when interim Councillor in 1997. If you want to be successful Nation. In a by-election in 2017 he portfolio of Education. initiatives are pursued.” The Chakastaypasin Band and the Peter “Education is a Treaty Right, and we became Chief. Chief Chaboyer is running reinforce our Treaty Right to Education today you need an education, Recently Chief Burns was re-elected and has Chapman Band are under the umbrella of for re-election in March of 2018. by working together with our Partners to been Chief of James Smith Cree Nation since the James Smith Cree Nation. says Chief Chaboyer bring comparable education funding to our Chief Chaboyer volunteers in the arena, 2008. Initially he ran for Council in 2006 schools,” said Chief Head. “I am confident donating many hours of his time to because he wanted to “make a difference” Born on Nov. 12, 1960 in the hospital in Chief Rene Chaboyer of the Cumberland that the Partnership will be capable of ensuring the arena is ready for activities. in his community. His first portfolio was the nearby town of , he attended House Cree Nation has had a number of handling the demands of a number of Chief Chaboyer and his wife Tanya housing. The priorities for Chief Burns have school in town until 1974 when James Smith priorities for his community while he has communities that are separated by hundreds Chaboyer have one son, Frank, who is 12 been in the programs of education, health, Cree Nation established the Central School. been on Council. These priorities have of kilometres of diverse landscape.” years-old. housing and post-secondary. “I believe that After quitting school, he became a bus included settling a land claim, improving driver. He then returned to the classroom the previous Councils and I have worked Mr. Head has served as Chief of the Peter the quality of the education, the quality of Chief Chaboyer believes the focus of his effectively together to improve the programs taking adult education classes in Nipawin, water, and most recently, improving health community must be youth, and says, “We and obtained his Grade 10. Chapman Band for the past nine years. in these areas,” he said. Prior to being Chief, he was a Councillor. care. “We have accessed the funding to need to provide our youth with more He was just recently re-elected, and he bring a doctor to our community for two and better educational tools so that their Born at Kinistino on May 19, 1970, Chief After attaining his Grade 10, he began looks forward to working on behalf of the days a week. Now we are recruiting for confidence will increase, which will result in Burns attended Central School at James working in the field of auto mechanics. He members he represents. the doctor,” said Chief Chaboyer. more success.” Smith Cree Nation until Grade 6. When liked working on cars, and he did this until Bernard Constant Community School 1994. He then began a new vocation as As for Education, Chief Chaboyer believes a carpenter. Over the next few years, he Born in Saskatoon at St. Paul’s Hospital, opened in 1986, the students moved to the Mr. Head grew up off reserve in the City it is a good foundation to be successful. Chief Carlton Bear says getting new facility. He attended Bernard Constant worked as a mechanic or carpenter. Then Graduating means more opportunities he began his career as an elected official. of Bridges. He graduated from Kinistino an Education means more Shoal Lake Cree Nation Chief Carlton Bear. Community School until Grade 8, then Comprehensive High School in 1985. After for a person. “Anyone growing up today needs to have that certificate, degree or went to Cumberland College in Melfort for Chief Sanderson and his wife Delma Grade 12, Chief Head enrolled in business doors will open diploma in their back pocket if they want Grades 9 and 10. Sanderson raised five children who are administration at Saskatchewan Indian Institute In 2011, Chief Bear was re-elected. In of Technologies. In 1992 he completed the to be successful,” he said. While at school he enjoyed playing sports, now adults. Five of his children attended Chief Carlton Bear of the Shoal Lake Cree 2014 he was asked by the membership to course and received his diploma. especially fastball, hockey, track and field Bernard Constant Community School. Chief Chaboyer believes that Grade 12 Nation and his wife Miranda Bear are the run for Chief and was victorious. Chief Three graduated from Bernard Constant parents of six children, and they have Bear was re-elected in 2017. Some of and soccer. He relished spending time in Chief Head then began employment with only opens so many doors. “For us at the industrial arts shop classes, as he took a Community School and one graduated from Cumberland House Cree Nation, trades stressed to their children the importance Chief Bear’s accomplishments include a school in Saskatoon. the Prince Albert Tribal Council for a of education. “Getting a good education building more houses, establishing a Head strong interest in welding. number of years. He worked in the areas are important. We need to find a way to expand industrial arts in our school, and means that you will have more options for Start Program and creating a day care He believes the Partnership established with of post-secondary education for six years, Chief Burns and his partner Victoria Constant bring such courses closer to Cumberland your career,” said Chief Bear. centre. Cumberland House Cree Nation, Shoal Lake then moved into finance for three years. have two boys and three girls. Four of the House Cree Nation,” said Chief Chaboyer. Cree Nation, and James Smith Cree Nation The Bear’s six children range in ages from One of the benefits of the Partnership five children have graduated with a Grade “We need to customize our school to make including Chakastaypasin Band of the Cree In the year 2000 Chief Head moved to 10 months to 21 years-of-age. One of the for the Shoal Lake Cree Nation is that it 12 and the other child is attending St. Mary the James Smith Cree Nation, working it fit the needs of the students.” School in Prince Albert. Nation and Peter Chapman Band will work Bear children, Carlanda, graduated from will assist the community in retaining its well for the individual communities. “I as a teacher’s aide at Bernard Constant the Wacihk Education Complex at Shoal Cree language. “About 90 percent of our Community School. As a teaching aide, “The Partnership will provide us with The Chief of the James Smith Cree Nation think the Partnership will result in increased Lake Cree Nation with a Grade 12 in 2015. staff at the Wacihk Education Complex he worked with students in Grades 9 to 12 the opportunity to bring more of our says, “I did not get a chance to complete my funding for the schools, which will mean She is now attending college. Another speak Cree, and through the Partnership on the more difficult subjects of algebra customs and traditions such as hunting Grade 12, maybe I should do my GED.” better resources for the students, such and trapping into our school,” commented child Haley will graduate with a Grade the community can decide if they want as more high cost teachers and funding and chemistry. He liked working with the 12 in June. Two other Bear children are to focus instruction in Cree,” commented students on these challenging subjects. Chief Chaboyer. “We need to utilize for physical education equipment. Our Education to help us retain our language. attending the school at Shoal Lake Cree Chief Bear. “Students can learn the students will then be able to compete with The next area that Chief Head worked in Participating in the Partnership will allow Nation, and their son Tyrell is attending LP customs and traditions of Elders who have other schools, and in doing so they will gain at Bernard Constant Community School Cumberland House Cree Nation to tailor Miller Comprehensive School in Nipawin passed, such as learning survival by living more confidence.” Chief Head was career development. In education programs to the desires of the for hockey. off the land.” community.” this position, he researched and gathered Born at Carrott River on September 24, “Students will be able to start getting information material for students on post- Chief Robert Head looks The Chief and Council at Cumberland 1978, Mr. Bear was raised at the Shoal Lake ideas about career goals in Grades 9 secondary education options. “This is an Cree Nation. His school days were spent and 10 through the Partnership,” he important area, as students thinking of House Cree Nation fully support this forward to working with initiative. “I believe it is an exciting time being with friends and playing sports such said. “Not all students want to become post-secondary need to know what is out as hockey, slow-pitch and volleyball. Chief doctors or lawyers, and the Partnership will partners on Education there,” noted Chief Head. “It is important for the three First Nations, and it is long overdue. Our education system needs a Bear completed Grade 10 at the Wacihk accommodate much more technical and for students to have a firm grasp on the Education Complex, then entered a four vocational training.” The Chief of the Peter Chapman Band options for post-secondary education, and shakeup. is Robert Head, who believes that year carpentry training program at his Cree the Partnership can assist with this.” Parents have been asking the leadership the Partnership will mean increased Nation. to find a way to improve the education responsibility for the three First Nations Chief Head and his wife Eleanor Head have system.” He wanted to contribute to his community, involved. “We are taking a proactive nine children, ranging in age from 11 to and by practising carpentry he was able approach to enhancing our education 29 years. Three of their children are still Born at Cumberland House Cree Nation to build houses for community members. services for each and every one of our attending high school. on Feb. 23, 1975, he was raised in the After working at carpentry for four Chief Calvin Sanderson of the Chakastaypasin Band of children,” said Chief Head. community. He attended school in the Cree Nation Nation. years, he switched jobs and became a

6 7 The Benefits of the Education Partnership The Current Education System Education was one of Vernon Greyeyes’ passions Creation of a Partnership that is responsible for gover- First Nations and Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) are responsible nance and management dedicated to Education. for numerous programs. They are not dedicated to the governance Vernon Greyeyes was the principal of and management of Education. Bernard Constant Community School Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) are interested in Currently, significant education funding to Tribal Councils is proposal at James Smith Cree Nation until his approving groups of First Nations that are dedicated to based, and there is little certainty of funding going forward. untimely passing in September of 2017. governing and managing Education. Mr. Greyeyes had a passion for education and helping students find their way in the A Partnership would provide for more immediate and dedicat- PAGC has the challenge of delivering a wide range of second level classroom. He was a strong advocate for ed second level service support for Education. education services; services that are not focused on Education only. exploring options for a better education system for the students at Bernard Constant With headquarters of the Partnership in Nipawin, program support The PAGC headquarters in Prince Albert and the competing priori- Community School. would be timelier, and focused on education. ties of other programs does not ensure timely program support for education. In an interview in his office in June of 2017, Mr. Greyeyes described his thoughts on Accountability and reporting to the First Nation partners will be The Tribal Council has multiple programs and initiatives to oversee. As developing a First Nation operated system. embodied in the governance framework and negotiated with ISC. a result, their accountability and reporting pertaining to education to “When you talk about quality of education, Accountability and reporting will have a single program focus and the First Nations has been limited. In fact, in the process of complet- it’s having engaged students, informed address the importance of enhancing student achievement. ing the Partnership proposal, representatives working on the proposal parents and committed teachers. For any of The late Vernon Greyeyes will be missed by many. were unable to receive education program related data. those to happen, you have to have a culture of learning; a climate of learning in the strapped, sent home, kicked out, or even Mr. Greyeyes passed away on September 27, Partnership directors will be appointed to conduct themselves as The Tribal Council is composed and represented by elected leadership school,” he says. Mr. Greyeyes believes that expelled for the rest of the school year. 2017, surrounded by his family. independent stewards and oversee the Partnership in a professional that oversee the Education sector as one program component of under a First Nation operated system, there “When you are young, it seems normal. I Mr. Greyeyes is survived by his wife, Brenda and non-political capacity. The directors will assume the responsi- many. will be more resources to put towards culture didn’t understand it until I was older,” said Greyeyes; his son, Brennon Greyeyes; his bility for the governance, management and administration of the and language in schools. Mr. Greyeyes. step-sons, Joshua Courchene and Justin education program, with the support of qualified education profes- Born and raised in Muskeg Lake, Mr. Courchene (Cara); his mother, Georgina sionals. During the interview, Mr. Greyeyes reflected Greyeyes attended Marcelin High school. Greyeyes; his father, Richard Greyeyes; his on his 14 years teaching in the classroom After graduation, he enrolled in the arts brothers, Ken (Tina), Dennis (Lori), Floyd, Tim The Elected First Nation Leadership will be responsible for addressing The Tribal Council requires the leaders to assume oversight on the before moving into an administrative position. program at the University of Saskatchewan. (Karen) and Darrell; and his sisters, Lorraine, Treaty matters with the Government of Canada on a Nation to Nation governance, management and administration of education, in addition “I miss teaching in the classroom. The Unable to finish after two attempts, he Lori-ann, Cheryl and Donna (Ted), Jamie basis. The Partnership directors will be responsible for identifying to assuming their responsibility as “Holders of Treaty”. look on a student’s face when they grasp decided to take a different path towards (Clint). He was predeceased by his brother issues pertaining to the Treaty that should be addressed by the lead- a concept. You can see their confidence becoming a teacher. In 1993, he enrolled Donald Joseph on July 3, 1977. ership as the “Holders of Treaty.” grow, and they believe they can do the next in the Indian Teacher Education Program problem, and the next after that. At the end Mr. Greyeyes loved his family very much. First Nation leadership will have more time to oversee on-reserve Under the current model, the individual Chief and Councils are re- (ITEP) at the University of Saskatchewan and of the year, when you put it all together, you He looked forward to family get-togethers programs, while the Partnership Directors assume the governance, sponsible for education services on reserve, and the Tribal council for graduated in 1996. In 2010, Mr. Greyeyes see how rewarding it is for the students when and loved planning and organizing many management and administration of education with professional providing second level program support services. completed his masters of education from the they realize how much they have grown and celebrations throughout his life. For Mr. staff. University of Saskatchewan. After spending changed since September. That’s what I miss. Greyeyes, all students were the most 14 years teaching in the classroom, he spent Being a part of that.” important people in the world. He loved Other groups/partnerships of First Nations have been able to have Staying under the current model, First Nations would be responsible the last six as a principal with Red Pheasant children. His hobbies and favorite pastimes the First Nation partners retain their education generated Band for all first level education services on reserve and use Band Support Cree Nation near North Battleford, and Mr. Greyeyes and his wife Brenda Greyeyes included golfing, reading, watching funny support funding for a period of time. This would allow participating Funding to support that responsibility. James Smith Cree Nation. drove daily from Dalmeny to work at their videos on YouTube, spending time with his First Nations leadership to have the operational capacity to address education positions at Bernard Constant Vernon Greyeyes: The late Mr. Greyeyes family and listening to music. Treaty issues as they arise. Community School. was the Principal of Bernard Constant Mr. Greyeyes will be missed by the students, Community School at James Smith Cree What Mr. Greyeyes liked most about James staff, and the entire community of James Nation, and passed away in September of Terminology for Education Services Smith Cree Nation were the people, the staff Smith Cree Nation. 2017. In June, Mr. Greyeyes was in the Cree and students. He mentioned that Bernard Service What does it mean? language classroom at the school. Constant and James Smith had a very supportive leadership team. Original Second Level Service Formula developed and applied in the late 1980s, with limited funding to Tribal Councils to assist with “For me, like many others, going into funding formula provided by program coordination with First Nations and consultation with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC). education seemed to be a way to make a Indian and Northern Affairs Funding is still provided to Tribal Councils as part of the Saskatchewan INAC education funding formula. difference in the lives of young people,” The Development of the Graphic Identifier for the Partnership Canada (INAC) Saskatchewan said Mr. Greyeyes. “Having grown up on Region. a reserve, and gone through the provincial The development of the graphic identifier for the East Central First Nation Partnership began in school system, I’ve found there are a lot of June of 2017. The original concept of the graphic identifier was the creation of the late Vernon Proposal Based program – Initially available to First Nations and Tribal Councils. Program is now available to Tribal Councils and ap- teachings that can be spread to others.” New Paths proved Education Authorities providing second level services to participating First Nations. Shadow budget Greyeyes, the former principal of Bernard Constant Community School. In his office in June on a rainy day, Mr. is provided, and Tribal Council and approved Education Authority develop an expenditure plan based on The East Central First Nations Education Partnership plans to place the graphic identifier Greyeyes described his school experience general INAC criteria, then submit for approval. prominently on all products that will be produced. Resources are not to be used for flow through to individual First Nations. Uncertainty regarding the continu- off the reserve as a generally good one. For ation of the funding reduces initiatives to one year. a lot of his friends and relatives, he recalled Below is the original sketch of the graphic identifier Over the next seven months, the concept was modified their experiences being quite the opposite. drawn by Mr. Greyeyes. and fully developed by a graphic artist. Below is the First Nations Student Support Program is available primarily to groups of First Nations and is based on three-year proposals. Proposals “I didn’t understand until later on that the present graphic identifier that was approved by the Program –(FNSSP) are reviewed and approved for funding by independent educators, usually with experience in First Nations provincial system had failed our people. I interim board in January of 2018. Education programming. Priority areas have been identified for consideration when developing a proposal. guess they were lacking in cultural sensitivity There is flexibility in targeting specific areas of interest when developing a proposal. The focus is on estab- and family dynamics. As I’m older now, I can lishing a central support service to assist with school success programs. The lack of committed on-going now understand what happened back then. funding limits commitment to various program developments and creates challenges in attracting perma- They wanted to put us into a box; we didn’t nent professional staff. fit. It meant that there was something wrong with us,” he said. Special Education The Tribal Councils and Education Authorities receive funding for special education services. Prince Al- Mr. Greyeyes said he had always found school bert Grand Council provides special education program services under a block funded agreement. to be easy for him. Unfortunately, for his Education Second level service The provider of second level education services is responsible to report to the member First Nations regard- cousins, they struggled more. This caused accountability ing the level of services provided. This would include information on the impact of the services on the level them to be labelled and treated differently of and improvement of student achievement. than Mr. Greyeyes. In those days, they were

8 9 Partnership plans to will also need to determine their views on make themselves available to meet with Budget Considerations for the • revise the budget level, address budgets governing partnership. what the Partnership will be proposing,” members. The Partnership’s first round that would be comparable to the The anticipated activities in be strongly active in commented Randy Constant. “We will of open houses is scheduled for March in Partnership budgets provided to provincial school the next few months will be communications and employ a number of tools to obtain their each of the communities. divisions. This will require an application to share information with opinions, then we will summarize what Creating an Education Partnership of First of the current Province of Saskatchewan community members in an consultations we have learned and report back to the The open houses are an ideal venue for Nations will require the identification of provincial funding formula; effort to identify if there communities.” the membership to express their views the education budgets that support the is a desire to establish a The interim board of directors to the interim board of directors. While current participating First Nations. Based • identify the supplemental budget new independent Education of the East Central First Nations Some of the communication tools that attending the open houses, members on a review of current budget components, requirements to address language and governing partnership. Based Education Partnership strongly the Partnership will employ will include: can complete surveys so their views can the current partner First Nations receive culture education programming that was on the community acceptance to believes that members must be advertisements in print and on radio, be expressed. The website will contain funded education services as follows: identified as a priority by INAC; move forward, Chief and Councils provided with information that is newsletters, printed fact sheets, posters, surveys which members can complete to will inform INAC via Band Council • through funding agreements with Indian • identify supplemental items to support accurate, factual and relevant. The video clips and a website. There will provide the board with their opinions. Resolution of the desire identified and Northern Affairs Canada, (INAC) transition costs required by the new information will be provided using a variety be a number of newsletters produced Occasionally, on certain issues, the by the communities. Negotiations now called Indigenous Services Canada Education partnership; of communication tools. over the next 18 months or so that will Partnership will ask the membership would commence, subject to community (ICS); give members the latest information on specific questions. “We are confident • identify costs related to supplemental and leadership decisions and INAC’s The board’s goal in the area of the activities of the Partnership. The the membership in the communities programing to address the gap created willingness to proceed. communications is to create an awareness • through Prince Albert Grand Council newsletters will be made available on will complete these surveys and answer as a result of the multi-year cap on of the Partnership amongst the (PAGC); and the Partnership’s website, which is under specific questions, as we know that the education funding; and There are current issues that may impact membership in the three participating construction. “I think the membership interest of the membership in Education is • payments made by INAC on behalf of a on the process as described above. communities. “From the awareness of the three First Nations will really enjoy high,” said Mr. Constant. First Nation (provincial school tuition). address the need to retain band support The issues relate to the joint initiative created, we want members to develop looking at the newsletters which are being funding levels at the First Nation level to of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) an understanding of what services the produced, as the newsletters will be The approach the interim board will It is these combined budget levels that allow for the Chiefs and Councils to have and INAC to submit a Memorandum to Partnership will be able to deliver to the tabloid style with large type, good photos be using in both communications and when combined, will form the base level the capacity to address the Treaty matters Cabinet to potentially change the past schools,” said Randy Constant, interim and lots of information,” said the interim consultations is to be visible and active. of current 2017-2018 budgets supporting as they arise. and current approach used by INAC. If President of the board. “Every member of President. “As we move along, we will be “At the open houses, the interim board K to 12 education for the participating the changes are major, the procedures and the interim board realizes the importance asking the membership if the newsletters will use information banners and a display partner First Nations. The above supplemental budget levels approach referenced above could impact of reaching out to the membership so are missing any specific information.” so members will easily be able to attend have been negotiated with INAC by on the development of the proposed The current budget levels will have to they will gain both knowledge and an a booth that interests them,” said Mr. other groups of First Nations in the Partnership. The leadership of the First be reviewed and confirmed by INAC, appreciation of the Partnership’s goals.” One communication tool that the Constant. establishment of their independent Nations participating in the partnership and arrangements for the redirecting of Partnership plans to use on a regular basis education authority. Some of the budget may be asked to address their interests Consultations are going to be an important The interim board encourages all members budgets currently managed by INAC and is called an open house. Open houses components above have been time limited and ensure that the potential changes will activity for the Partnership. The interim to take notice of when an open house is PAGC to form the initial budget level will be conducted in each community but have been recognized and approved not negatively impact on the potential board wants to obtain the views of the being held in their community, drop in, supporting the partner First Nations in to provide members the opportunity based on negotiations. development of the proposed partnership. membership on the Partnership. The to drop in and meet with members of and talk to members of the interim board. 2017-2018. interim board knows quite well that it the board of directors, obtain printed “The members of the interim board are The negotiations usually take 12 to Once the 2017-2018 budget levels are needs to create an education system that information, watch some video clips and approachable and will do their best to 24 months. The negotiation period identified, the next task will be to identify will serve the needs of the communities most importantly, have their questions answer the questions members may have starts following the confirmation by the the supplemental budget levels to support involved. “We need to find out from the answered. Members of the Chief and on Education,” said Mr. Constant. communities that they wish to move the following: members in the communities their opinions Council will attend these sessions and will forward with the establishment of a on the current education system, and we

INAC (Indian and Northern Affairs Canada) PAGC (Prince Albert Grand Council) Adjust to provincial comparable funding levels First Nations Agreement with

Sublemental Language and Culture Budget Base Budget for INAC payments on Partnership behalf of First Nation

Transition

PAGC budgets dedicated to First Addressing the Partner First Nations impact of the 2% gap

The display that will be used for events conducted by the East Central First Nations Education Partnership.

10 11 Introducing the schools Year completed: 1986 Square metres: 3,618 in the three First Nations Number of classrooms: 24 Type of classrooms: computer, language, regular, science and industrial arts Cumberland House Cree Nation’s Gymnasium: yes - badminton, basketball, floor hockey, ping pong, Nisto Awasisak Memorial School soccer and volleyball Library: yes - well stocked, but room for increasing the holdings Number of teachers: 21 including administrators Number of support staff: 16 Number of students: 286 in 2017-2018 Grades taught: Nursery, Kindergarten to Grade 12 Outdoor recreational activities: including soccer and track and field Photo by Pierrette Settee Condition of school: retrofit required, need repairs to front door, electrical and heating systems need upgrades, playground structures, roof and windows

Shoal Lake Cree Nation’s Wachik Education Complex

Year completed: 1999 Square metres: 3,455 Number of classrooms: 15 Type of classrooms: craft, computer lab, industrial arts and regular Gymnasium: yes - basketball, hockey and volleyball Library: yes - stocked, but room for increasing the holdings Number of teachers: 14 Number of support staff: 25 Number of students: 206 in 2017-2018 Grades taught: Kindergarten to Grade 12 Outdoor recreational activities: including broomball, hockey and skiing Condition of school: generally good, need repairs to flooring, front entrance and roof Year completed: 2000 Square metres: 3,455 James Smith Cree Nation’s Bernard Constant Number of classrooms: 13 Community School Type of classrooms: computer lab, craft, culture industrial arts Gymnasium: yes - basketball, floor hockey and volleyball Library: yes – stocked, but room for increasing the holdings Number of teachers: 15 Number of support staff: 18 Number of students: 216 in 2017-2018 Grades taught: Kindergarten to Grade 12 Outdoor recreational activities: including baseball, soccer and track and field Condition of school: retrofit required, need of major upgrade to heating system, outside areas work attention.

Event Calendar For further information, please contact: March 7, 2018 Partnership Open House at Cumberland House Cree Nation in the gym- Cumberland House Cree Nation - Interim nasium of Nisto Awasisak Memorial School 2 to 4 pm, and 7 to 9 pm with board member Marcia Seeseequasis supper at 6 pm. For further information contact, interim board member (306) 850-9894 Marcia Seeseequasis at (306) 850-9894. All members are welcome. March 21, Partnership Open House at James Smith Cree Nation in the gymnasium James Smith Cree Nation - Interim President of 2018 of Bernard Constant Community School 2 to 4 pm, and 7 to 9 pm with the board Randy Constant (306) 864-7711 supper at 6 pm. For further information contact, interim board President Shoal Lake Cree Nation – Interim board mem- Randy Constant at (306) 864-7711. All members are welcome. ber Harold (Butch) Carriere (306) 888-7034 March 22, Partnership Open House at Shoal Lake Cree Nation in the gymnasium of 2018 Wacihk Education Complex 2 to 4 pm, and 7 to 9 pm with supper at 6 pm. or the East Central First Nations Education For further information contact, interim board Harold (Butch) Carriere at Partnership at www.ecfnep.ca (306) 888-7034. All members are welcome.

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