Kiiwetinoong MPP asking Ministry of Education to support, fund, Matawa First Nations COVID-19 Emergency Education Response Plan
Tim Brody - Editor
Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa is calling on the provincial government to support Matawa First Nations COVID-19 Emergency Education Response Plan.
In an open letter to Education Minister Stephen Lecce dated July 8, Mamakwa states, “The Matawa Chiefs Council is therefore requesting emergency funding to support ongoing costs and new measures that must be in place for the safe return of students in September. Matawa First Nations require additional funding to support expanded broadband, additional PPE supplies, the upgrading of facilities and curriculum modifications.”
Mamakwa went on to state, “The options you have provided Ontario public schools between returning to full time in-class instruction, and/or online-only learning, leaves out students in fly-in First Nations communities across Ontario’s far North.
“Families and schools in remote communities often have too few devices and poor to insufficient broadband. Without access to broadband in their communities and nowhere else to go, students are unable to access the mandatory programs they need to complete their education. Indigenous students are being excluded from the provincial education system.
“This exclusion of First Nations students from your government’s education plans is part of the systemic racism that Indigenous young people are forced to cope with.
“That systemic racism must end.
“Our learners deserve access to the same level of technology and educational supports whether they attend a provincial or a First Nations school.”
Mamakwa said First Nation communities across the far North, learners, and staff need to be safe for quality education programs and services to be delivered in the upcoming school year and stated the expense of providing education in a safe and healthy environment will require additional funding from the Ministry of Education.
“While First Nations and their educational support organizations strive to provide a quality education that meets student needs, they now have to look at altering their methods of delivery, and hiring additional staff such as teachers and support staff with experience in remote learning.
“There is also a heightened need for investment in mental health systems development and mental health supports for learners to ensure services are available to meet the increased demand during this time of crisis.
“This is the perfect opportunity to show your commitment to education in the North. I ask you to transcend jurisdictional ambiguity and support this necessary emergency funding,” Mamakwa concluded.
Matawa First Nations include: Aroland First Nation, Constance Lake First Nation, Eabametoong First Nation, Ginoogaming First Nation, Long Lake #58 First Nation, Marten Falls First Nation, Neskantaga First Nation, Nibinamik First Nation and Webequie First Nation.