Students’ response to Aboriginal focused school

In January 2011 Jo-ann Archibald held community consultation forums to determine the community support for a school with an “Aboriginal lens.” Parents, students, teachers and stakeholders were asked a variety of questions.

Related: Vancouver aspires to improve Aboriginal schooling

A student forum at MacDonald elementary on Jan. 21, had 55 participants. The forum asked for ideas on what a school with an Aboriginal focus would look like.

Below are some selected responses taken directly from the Aboriginal Education Forum (PDF).

• One student expressed concern for an all-Aboriginal school because she felt that it is not good to isolate; it is better to be multi-cultural; she can get along with all people regardless of race.
• Another student expressed that, for some Aboriginal students, it is easier to succeed with other Aboriginal students.
• An Aboriginal school will help with graduation rates.
• It must be a positive environment.
• A language course is important
• Aboriginal people come from different cultures, but do share common experiences.
• One student shared “If I didn’t have outreach [school], I would have dropped out.”
• All Aboriginal focus would provide opportunity to share different traditions.
• Need supportive teachers and coaches.
• Need Aboriginal teachers and elders in school.
• No bullying is important: Students want to feel safe.

The forum found that overall students like the idea of an Aboriginal focused school.