First Nations Success Stories (M4-3)

On the Indian and Northern Affairs Canada website they have a very interesting section devoted to Aboriginal Communities in Canada that are considered success stories.  Here are the communities they have listed:

• Akwesasne
• Blood Tribe
• Cape Dorset, Nunavut
• Eel Ground First Nation
• Sprouts Day Camp, Iqaluit
• St. John’s Native Friendship Centre, Newfoundland
• Wikwemikong
• Wendake First Nation, Quebec
• Westbank
• Membertou First Nation
• Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development Inc.
• Nunavik Youth Hockey Development Program Kuujjuaq, Quebec
• Haida Heritage Centre
• Wabano Centre
• Four Host First Nations – Olympics Art & Culture

Each success story contains a case study on the community and most share a video.  Again this is an excellent resource for gaining some insight into Native communities and more importantly successes within these communities.

In my research on First Nations in education I encountered many figures and facts that paint a pretty bleak picture for many Aboriginal youth and communities in Canada but this resource focuses on some of the great strides and pioneering efforts some of these communities are leading.

On of the success stories that really stuck out was the one focused on Eel Lake.  This community has been focused on blending new technology with traditional cultural teachings.  The group has been using technological aids such as smart-boards, videoconferencing and the internet, the Eel Ground First Nation is gaining recognition as one of the most technologically advanced in Canada. Since it first opened its doors the Eel Ground First Nation School has seen attendance triple with their groundbreaking approach to learning.

Hit this link for more information on this project and a video of the community at work.