Government of Canada Congratulates Kwakiutl First Nation on New School
News Release
September 7, 2016 – Vancouver, BC – Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
This year, 1,970 students will be starting a new school year in one of the six new schools in First Nations communities.
Today, the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, congratulated the Kwakiutl First Nation in British Columbia on the completion of the new Wagalus School.
This joint initiative between the Government of Canada and the First Nation will ensure that the children of Kwakiutl First Nation have a safe and healthy place in which they can thrive.
The new school will accommodate up to 86 students from Kindergarten to Grade 7 and features four classrooms, gymnasium/auditorium, and space for a preschool.
Through Budget 2016, the Government of Canada is investing $969.4 million over five years in First Nation education infrastructure, for the construction, repair and maintenance of First Nations school facilities. These further investments will continue to create quality learning environments that are safe and healthy, thereby promoting better educational outcomes for First Nation students living on reserves.
Quotes
"A school is the heart of so many communities. It’s a place of learning and a symbol of hope for the future. As another school year begins, I want to congratulate the Kwakiutl First Nation in British Columbia and extend my best wishes to the students and community members on the successful completion of their new school."
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P.,
Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs
"It takes many hands to complete a project of this magnitude. We acknowledge the ongoing commitment of our team including INAC’s support. Wagalus School provides a solid foundation in Kwakiutl traditions, values, and language – inspiring resourceful and confident students. As we settle into another year of learning, our children will fill our beautiful new school with laughter, joy and hope for a bright future. Gilakasla."
Chief Leslie Dickie,
Kwakiutl First Nation
Quick facts
- The Kwakiutl First Nation is on northern Vancouver Island near Port Hardy, British Columbia.
- In total, Canada invested $9.2 million to support the new Wagalus School. The Kwakiutl First Nation contributed $2.6 million.
- Budget 2016 commits $2.6 billion over five years to invest in primary and secondary education on reserves starting in 2016–17.
Associated links
Contacts
Sabrina Williams
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
Follow us on Twitter: @GCIndigenous
Search for related information by keyword