Page 63 - Alderville First Nation

Education Rights
You have probably heard and read about residential schools and
First Nations people. When they were very young, our parents
and grandparents had to attend day schools run by church
officials. Indian day schools were similar to residential schools,
except that day school students went home at night, while
residential school students lived at the school. The day school
here, like other day schools in the region, discouraged the
practice of traditional beliefs or ways of knowing and permitted
English only.
Much of our culture was lost in these schools. People today
recognize the value of reclaiming our language and belief
systems, and are working to bring back the language and culture
that are so much a part of who we are.

The right to education, without cost, is considered a treaty right.
Historically, this has been interpreted to mean that the federal
government, in exchange for items negotiated in the treaties,
will cover all costs for education in all levels of school, including
public schools and post-secondary schools.

Our education funding does not come from the property tax
dollars paid to fund provincial schools. Rather, it comes from
federal funds we receive through Indigenous Services Canada.

We’re proud of all our post-secondary students,
such as Kailee Dupuis, pictured here.

Alderville First Nation 61

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