Education

First Nations Programs and Partnerships

First Nations education - Government of Yukon photo I13-07-25dp

In August 2006, the Department of Education created a new unit under the Public Schools Branch—the First Nations Programs and Partnerships Unit (FNPPU). In 07/08, the Department of Education committed over $5.2 million dollars to supporting the FNPPU and First Nations initiatives in education.

The mandate of FNPPU is to:

  • Build productive relationships with First Nations
  • Improve the results of First Nation students in the K-12 system
  • Work toward increased levels of cultural inclusion in Yukon schools
  • Provide direct and indirect support to Yukon First Nations, schools and the Department of Education

Already the FNPPU is making considerable progress. Working collaboratively with the First Nation Education Advisory Committee (which invites representation and participation from all Yukon First Nations), the FNPPU has developed several exciting First Nation curriculum materials and resources for the Yukon classroom.

  • Currently under development are Yukon First Nation focused Social Studies units for grade 4, which will focus on the tradition of potlatches, the geography and languages of the 14 Yukon First Nations, and the meaning of traditional lands.
  • Three new titles in our Yukon First Nation-focused Early Reader NorthWind Books series will also be available shortly.
  • The FNPPU is also working to adapt the British Columbia First Nation Studies 12 course for use in Yukon classrooms.
  • In partnership with CYFN and thanks to Northern Strategy funding, development of an interactive DVD featuring Yukon First Nation Elders is currently underway. This DVD will be created with elementary school audiences in mind.
  • In addition to the FNPPU work in curriculum materials and resources, the unit is also developing an Engagement Protocol which will outline best practice on how to involve First Nations in school activities.

Contact - First Nations Programs & Partnerships

First Nations Programs & Partnerships
Department of Education
Government of Yukon
Box 2703
Whitehorse, Yukon
Canada Y1A 2C6

Phone: (867) 456-6752
Toll free (In Yukon): 1-800-661-0408, local 6752
Fax: (867) 456-6766
ruby.grant@gov.yk.ca