The Yukon First Nation School Board Framework announced in June 2021 sets out the process for the creation of a First Nation School Board under the Education Act.
As of October 31, 2021, the following school councils have submitted a resolution to trigger a referendum on their school falling under the authority of a newly established First Nation School Board:
- Chief Zzeh Gittlit School;
- Grey Mountain Primary School;
- Johnson Elementary School and Watson Lake Secondary School, which includes one referendum;
- Ross River School; and
- St. Elias Community School.
Interested school communities whose school council did not pass a resolution can still submit a petition to the Minister of Education by December 13, 2021. The referendum process will take place in January 2022 in any school attendance area where a resolution or petition signed by 20 per cent of eligible electors is submitted. Additional details on the referendum process will be made available once the petition period closes.
Elections Yukon will oversee the referendum and voting process on behalf of the Minister of Education.
We all have a responsibility to ensure that our educational system is reflective of First Nations history, culture and languages. The First Nation School Board Framework Agreement provides a path to advance reconciliation and provides First Nations governments’ greater authority in the education of their citizens. A school board is an additional tool to support Yukon First Nations to meaningfully shape their children’s education and improve their educational outcomes.
Minister of Education Jeanie McLean
October 31, 2021 was the last day for school councils to pass a resolution and submit to the Minister of Education to establish a school board.
December 13, 2021 is the last day which the Department of Education or Minister can receive a petition from individuals in favour of transitioning a school council to the Yukon First Nation School Board.
Petition packages are available by emailing Lori Choquette, School Council Liaison at lori.choquette@yukon.ca
Elections Yukon will oversee all voting, which will start on January 11, 2022 for those in the attendance areas where a referendum is taking place. The voting period will be 17 days.
Yukoners who are in attendance areas where a referendum is underway will have multiple options for submitting their ballots.
Reneé Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Erin Scott
Communications, Education
867-334-6052
erin.scott@yukon.ca