We are learning after all

Crees have seen plenty of stories of drop-outs and difficulties in seeing the graduation rates go upward instead of down. A new report challenges us to look beyond the negative stereotypes associated with Aboriginal  students and schools.

The State of Aboriginal Learning in Canada: A Holistic Approach to Measuring Success talks about what students are learning in and out of school.

First Nations students are more likely than other Canadians to be volunteers, get involved in music, sports or other clubs (Whapmagoostui Art Factory), family or community.

The report found 70 per cent of on reserve students volunteered compared to 46 per cent for the rest of Canada (ROC). Off reserve Aboriginal students fared 31 per cent to ROC’s 21 per cent participating in out of school activities such a social clubs or groups.

Even the off reserve students reported interacting with and Elder for one hour a week learning about language a, culture and traditions.

In this holistic look taking part in cultural ceremonies, hunting, distance learning and job related training is a better way to look at where Aboriginal students are in learning says the report.

National Chief Shawn Atleo supported the report saying, “It’s time to do something different when it comes to measuring success in First Nations learning. There are many tremendous successes in our communities, and this report paints a more complete picture of learning for our people and offers an inspiring starting point for effective change.”

The complete report is at:www.ccl-csa.ca/SAL2009.