The NWT’s education minister says an independent investigation will examine “serious concerns from parents, educators, community members and education partners in the Dehcho.”
Cabin Radio reported concerns related to some aspects of administration at Dehcho schools earlier this year.
Range Lake MLA Kieron Testart, following a visit to Fort Simpson, subsequently told the NWT legislature parents had complained of “mishandling of a critical incident, leadership failures and inaction, misinformation and inconsistent communication, alleged retaliation and abuse of authority,” alongside a lack of communication.
NNSL reported earlier this week on calls for the principal at Fort Simpson’s elementary school to be removed.
In a Friday afternoon news release, education minister Caitlin Cleveland announced an independently led investigation will begin next month.
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She said the GNWT had heard concerns related to “governance, financial management, workplace culture, communication and human resources,” and had launched its own internal financial review of the Dehcho Divisional Education Council and its district education authorities.
“While I recognize there is a need for urgent action in these areas, preliminary findings suggest the value of a broader examination,” Cleveland stated.
“I am appointing an independent investigator to conduct a formal review of the DDEC and all DEAs in the Dehcho education district. The review will examine governance and operational practices and assess whether assigned responsibilities are being fulfilled effectively by both elected officials and administrative staff.”
Separately, she stated, the NWT’s Department of Finance is “leading a human resources investigation related to personnel matters.”
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“The independent review will begin in July 2025 and will include input from current and former elected officials, administrative staff, educators, parents, and community members,” Cleveland’s statement continued.
“It is expected to conclude by the end of August, with findings and next steps to be shared in the new school year. I encourage all participants to take part in a respectful and constructive way.
“I understand many residents want to see action, and I share that sense of urgency. I also recognize that for some families – particularly Indigenous families still living with the intergenerational impacts of residential schools – these situations can be especially difficult. That’s why this work must be carried out with care, fairness, and respect.”
