Circle of Nation-Led Education
GUIDING NATIONS
Lheidli T’enneh First Nation & McLeod Lake Indian Band
GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLE
Treatied to Govern, Declared to Lead
Our Vision
Indigenous students are at the center, guided by Indigenous Nations. The Indigenous Education Council (IEC) of SD57 envisions an education system where every Indigenous learner is supported to succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and culturally, while remaining rooted in their identity, language, and community.
Guiding Principles
Respect
We speak, listen, and act in ways that honor every voice and every Nation.
Reciprocity
We share responsibilities and build relationships with balance.
Responsibility
We serve our children, families, and ancestors with accountability.
Relationality
Education must reflect who we are: rooted in land, language, family, and culture.
Equity in Action
Allocating resources and supports based on the unique needs of Indigenous learners.
Purpose
Grounded in Treaty and Declaration, the IEC is the Indigenous governing body responsible for:
Setting strategic direction for Indigenous Education in SD57 by Developing and approving the Indigenous Education Implementation Plan.
Providing governance over targeted Indigenous education funding by walking alongside the Indigenous Education Department (IED), ensuring accountability while respecting the IED’s operational leadership.
Strengthening Nation–district relationships grounded in respect, reciprocity, and responsibility.
Recreating systems that work for Indigenous learners, not imposed on them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your guide to understanding the Indigenous Education Council and how we can support Indigenous students and community partners.
What is IEC?
The IEC governs all Indigenous education in SD57 under Bill 40 authority.
The Indigenous Education Council exists because our children deserve systems designed with them in mind. Systems that reflect who they are, where they come from, and where they’re going.
What is the role of IEC?
The IEC holds legal authority (Bill 40) over the direction of Indigenous education in SD57, with the responsibility to govern strategic direction, program priorities, and targeted funding:
• Develop and approve the Indigenous Education Implementation Plan.
• Provide oversight on the use and impact of Targeted Indigenous Education Funds.
• Guide the vision, values, and priorities of the IED.
• Ensure accountability to community needs and cultural responsibilities.
• Build and maintain Nation-to-district relationships based on truth, trust, and respect.
Where does IEC comes from?
The IEC is grounded in:
• Bill 40 – 2023 School Amendment Act
• Ministerial Order 217/2024 – Indigenous Education Council Order
• Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA)
• Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action
We Welcome
Your Voice
Feel free to contact us for any inquiries or feedback. We are here to assist you.
