Original Source: canada.ca

A safe and healthy place to learn is vital to a good education. The Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with First Nations communities to build school facilities that improve educational outcomes and foster pride and cultural identity for First Nations students.

Today, the Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Indigenous Services, joined Chief Tony Alexis to participate in a sod turning ceremony at Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation in Alberta. This event marks the official start of construction of the new junior-senior high school in the community.

The new school will address overcrowding issues at the current school and will also provide more career and technology studies options to prepare the First Nation students for post-secondary education and employment opportunities.

Quotes

"We're working with First Nations to address the gap in education outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Our government has made important commitments and today we're watching those commitments turn into real and meaningful change. I want to congratulate Chief Tony Alexis, the council and community of the First Nation. Mostly, though, I want to congratulate the students and future students who will benefit from the new school that will help to prepare them for success in all their future endeavours."

The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

"Over the last two years, my council and staff have worked alongside the federal government for a new school. When education was introduced to our people through residential schools - it was done terribly. Today, we recognize the importance of education and we will continue to achieve more academically. The new school will facilitate learning, space for ceremony and room to expand our programming. This will allow our youngest members to become masters of the institutions while still celebrating and preserving our beautiful culture."

Chief Tony Alexis
Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation

Quick Facts

• Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation is located approximately 90km northwest of Edmonton. There are over 1150 members that live on the reserve, and over 160 students enrolled in elementary and secondary school.
• The Nation has contributed $2.6 million to expand the gymnasium so it can also serve as a recreation centre for the entire community.
• The school will be ready for students in September 2021.