Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all band operated schools expected to implement the Treaty 8 Special Education policy and what happens with the school Special Education Policy?

The Treaty 8 policy is an umbrella policy and is a requirement in gaining RMO status. The policy will provide flexibility which gives the school opportunity to incorporate specific policies to meet specific learner needs. Each school can use both the Treaty 8 Special Education policy and school policy.

Are there any age limits for the program participants in the FNIYES Programs?

The program participants must be classified as a youth. This means that they must be less than 30 years of age to participate in the programs.

How are the monies allocated within the FNIYES Programs?

The monies are allocated based on population. The bigger the First Nation the more dollars they receive for their community within the four programs.

How is the membership for the Education Commission selected?

The membership consists of Education Tribal Directors, the Director of Education for Bigstone Cree Nation and an appointed Education Chief Portfolio Holder.

How will a Regional Management Organization provide better services for First Nation learners?

Treaty 8 Special Education RMO will implement and administer Special Education programming as outlined in the Special Education Program guidelines. As an RMO, Treaty 8 Special Education will provide both direct and indirect services to each band operated school. First Nations will have the opportunity to access indirect services from the RMO where available. Examples of indirect services are: professional development, hiring and contracting services, develop culturally relevant teaching materials, administer funding, capacity building, community and parental involvement and establishing protocols.

How will an Education System in Treaty 8 help our children?

The membership consists of Education Tribal Directors, the Director of Education for Bigstone Cree Nation and an appointed Education Chief Portfolio Holder.

What activities can be performed through the Science and Technology program?

The Science and Technology Program activities are chosen by the First Nation in their proposal. The activities can range from a traditional science camp to a trip to the Odyssium. The main objectives of the program is that it promotes science and technology.

What does the Education Commission do for Treaty 8 members?

They work in conjunction with the Treaty 8 Education staff in advocating for better services for our learners, promote the work on the curriculum and give directives on the exploration of a Comprehensive Education System for Treaty 8 learners. They promote Treaty Rights to our Nations members.

What is the compliance directive?

The compliance directive was developed by INAC to ensure consistency in all programming including Special Education and to support the quality of First Nation education. The compliance directive may be conducted through on-site reviews or in-office reviews. The on-site reviews will be conducted every three years and apply to all schools. The reviews will be conducted by a team consisting of INAC employees, and the FNRMO. They will review the eligibility, accuracy, and currency of student data such as the IEP.

When are assessments for mild/moderate/severe disabilities due for submission and who pays for assessments?

Formal assessments must be conducted by a professional and submitted for students listed on Attachment F (Intervention). Unfortunately, with the cut in funding, Treaty 8 is unable to assist in assessments. Each school must contract and pay for assessments. Assessments must be updated every three years and only assessments conducted after September 1, 2003 will be considered.

Why is language and culture important to the system?

As First Nation people we are unique through our language and culture, it is part of our identity. It makes us who we are as people. It is important for children to know who they are so they may develop the confidence they need to conquer any challenges that is set in front of them..