On Tuesday, June 20, 2006, the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, the North Vancouver School District, and the Ministry of Education celebrated the signing of the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement. 

Angela Uren, District Administrator-Aboriginal Education; Byron Joseph, Squamish Nation; Eric McMahon, Ministry of Education; Carleen Thomas, Tsleil-Waututh Nation; Robin Brayne, Superintendent of Schools

In signing the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement, the signatories indicated their intention, with shared participation and wisdom, to work together in a mutually respectful manner to develop appropriate and meaningful programs for the benefit of all Aboriginal learners. 

The Agreement is intended to enhance the academic achievement of Aboriginal students in the North Vancouver School District.  It stresses the integral nature of Aboriginal traditional culture and languages to Aboriginal student development and success.  It also establishes a collaborative partnership among the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh nations, all other Aboriginal peoples residing in North Vancouver, North Vancouver School District, and the Ministry of Education to share decision-making and goal-setting in meeting our Aboriginal students' educational needs.  This is a five-year Agreement extending from June 30, 2006 to June 30, 2011.

Pat Heal, Chairperson, Board of School Trustees

Linda Watson, President, North Vancouver Teachers' Association

Ernie George and Deanna George, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

We thank all students, parents, School District staff, and community members who made this Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement a reality.

We extend a special thank you to the following members of the District Aboriginal Advisory Council:

• Brad Baker
• Robin Brayne
• Lianne Britten
• Aline Burlone
• Heather Calder
• Magali Caron
• Lyn Daniels
• Maureen Davis
• Deanna George
• Pat Heal
• Mark Lefroy
• Maurice Nahanee
• Carleen Thomas
• Angela Uren
• Rosalind Williams

"This Enhancement Agreement is a powerful tool that builds trust and relationships.  The collective journey to create it and to keep it alive allows all stakeholders to share in all responsibilities and successes.  This Agreement is about empowerment, having a voice, and strength - the strength that shared respect can bring to all participating communities.  This Enhancement Agreement is about our commitment to all First Nation students in the North Vancouver School District."   

Angela Uren - District Administrator of Aboriginal Education

Three generations of Bakers: Faye Halls, Barb McKee, Emily Baker, Nancy Nightingale, Angela Uren

Click here for a copy of the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement

Click here for a copy of the Ministry of Education's Press Release