The New Westminster Schools Board of Education is officially committed to implementing recommendations and calls to action outlined by Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Furthermore, in January 2019 the Board endorsed and implemented the 2018-2023 Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement. The five-year plan supports Indigenous students academically, socially, and culturally while simultaneously ensures all learners – staff, students, and community – move closer to understanding reconciliation.
Four goals
The enhancement agreement highlights four goals for the district to meet along with indicators to measure progress.
- GOAL 1 – Belonging and culture – Indigenous students will develop pride, confidence, and self-esteem through affirming their ancestral identity.
- GOAL 2 – Academics – Indigenous learners will improve performance in grades four through seven in numeracy, reading, and writing.
- GOAL 3 – Transitions – Indigenous students will successfully transition from kindergarten to grade 12 and beyond.
- GOAL 4 – Reconciliation – All learners in New Westminster Schools – students, staff, and community – will increase their understanding and knowledge of Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives, with each school defining what reconciliation will look like in its own community.