Betkowski releases new education policy

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An education policy that will affect about 23,000 Native children in Alberta's provincial schools has finally been announced. The announcement was made on March 25 by Education Minister Nancy Betkowski when she addressed the House of the Alberta legislature.

Betkowski said that, "in order to continue to build on the work we have begun in Native education, $4 million have now been retained . . . will be allocated to school boards which have significant numbers of Native students in their schools."

In her statement before the House, Betkowski claimed that the new policy "will guide the education of Native children," and that, "this policy proposes the development and delivery of programs and services.

The policy, explained Betkowski, is a government one and commits Alberta to making significant improvements. More importantly, she continued, "it is a policy developed by and for Native people."

In explaining her government's position on education, she said that, "this policy and the funds involved do not infringe on the federal responsibility for the education of Native people on reserves." The policy is intended to enhance the education of Native students attending public schools.

She concluded her statements extending her appreciation to the Native people "for their help .. . their continued participation and commitment" which, she said, are essential to the success of the policy.