When perusing the web, I came across this article “Aboriginal Youth Waiting for their Superman” around aboriginal youth in Canada and what the lack of funding for education is doing for the youth in schools.  This seems pretty common and relevant for all students in the education system as of late.  The article brings to attention the lack of funding for basic accessibility of the Internet, computers and other technology which are not readily available within communities.  Why does it seem to still exist, this dual education modality?  Regular students vs. aboriginal? It is frustrating to read especially from an educators stand-point, If I have been given the opportunity to teach students of all race, colour, gender etc, and provide them with the best education that I can deliver, why isn’t the government supporting this with the necessary funding to do so?  If we as teachers don’t have the resources or means to provide an acceptable education, than yes, we will be struggling and the trickle down effect occurs right to the students.

Waiting for Superman is a 2010 documentary that provides a glimpse into what is happening in the American education system, and relates to the above article.

Articles in the Vancouver Sun on July 7, and 8 stress, as Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond says that BC needs a “more co-ordinated” approach to Aboriginal education. In the article, Grand Chief of the AFN, Shawn Atleo is referenced as saying that during his life-time there’s been a great many commissions and reports resulting great amounts of rhetoric and very little progress that might lead to real success for Aboriginal students. Aboriginal education is equally important for First Nations community as it is for all of Canada, given that First Nations youth represent the “fastest growing demographic”. More and more aboriginal youth are entering the workforce and it is essential for Canada’s economic success that they be educated to meet the needs of the growing knowledge based economy. On July 8th, some solutions are offered. It is noted that graduation rates among Aboriginal students continue to lag behind the general population, putting youth at a great disadvantage. They point out that in a “media-rich” global economy increased technical skills are key and that First Nations students are an “underutilized resource”. They state that “renewal must begin with the communities themselves”. They must move beyond the trauma of residential schools and “create a new warrior ethos”. Systemic flaws in the current system contribute to Aboriginal students’ lack of success and the system must respond and evolve to meet their needs. Early access to education, on and off reserves, in addition to stable, equitable funding are critical components of a successful system. First Nations communities, the Federal Government and the Province all need to work together to ensure progress is made on this issue. These articles will help support my work with my own school district and outlines the need for all levels to work in a co-ordinated fashion.