The Yellowknife Education District No 1 says it “appreciates” efforts by the NWT government to help schools affected by changes to Jordan’s Principle.
Caitlin Cleveland, the territory’s education minister, announced up to $14 million on Thursday to help pay for educational assistants at schools across the territory that have been unable to renew federal Jordan’s Principle funding for those positions.
The NWT government said the initiative is a temporary and immediate measure while territorial officials continue to advocate for federal support.
In a news release on Friday, the Yellowknife school district, known as YK1, said it appreciated the NWT government’s efforts “in advocating for the students of the Northwest Territories and offering this interim solution.”
The release states the school district will work closely with the education department during implementation of the funding initiative to support the needs of its students. It says further information will be released when available.
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“This measure provides some immediate relief to help ensure
students continue to receive in-class support despite recent changes to federal funding under Jordan’s Principle,” stated Barbara Bell, chairperson of YK1’s board of trustees.
“Working alongside our district office, we remain committed to advocating for lasting solutions that will bring long-term stability for students, families and schools.”
The NWT government has said around 200 educational assistant positions had been funded through Jordan’s Principle across the territory.
Graham Arts, assistant superintendent curriculum and learning at YK1, said 73 educational assistants formerly employed by the school district were advised in June that their positions would not be available in the new school year.
Arts said the number of positions the school district will be able to support now that territorial funding is available is yet to be determined.
