The Government of Canada Congratulates Ermineskin Cree Nation on the Opening of New Alternative School

MASKWACIS, AB, Oct. 27, 2017 /CNW/ - The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring First Nation students have quality learning environments that celebrate Indigenous culture and promote academic achievement.

The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, today offered her congratulations to Ermineskin Cree Nation on the opening of their new school, Ehpewapahk Alternate School.

This school offers Outreach and Alternate Programs that are designed to meet various learning requirements in a more flexible learning environment. In Cree, Ehpewapahk means "the sun is rising or morning sun". This translation is fitting as this school is outfitted with the latest technology including smart boards and solar power. This state-of-the-art facility reflects the importance and value of the Alternate program and will be the launching pad for students as they head out into the world to make their mark.

This project represents a $4.1 million investment from the Government of Canada with Ermineskin Cree Nation contributing another $400,000 for completion.

Quotes

"With its focus on celebrating Indigenous culture, this new alternative school will benefit not only students but the whole community for generations to come. The Government of Canada is pleased to support this project, and I offer my warmest congratulations to Ermineskin Cree Nation on this wonderful achievement. "

The Honourable Jane Philpott, M.D., P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

Quick Facts

• The Ehpewapahk Alternate School, operated by the Miyo Wahkohtowin Education Authority, focuses on providing the skills needed to enter the work force and is a complementary program to Maskwacis Outreach.
• The school has four classrooms, study rooms, a library, a workout facility, a commercial-sized kitchen, staff lounge and offices, plus a comfortable space for students to lounge and relax.

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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

Andrew MacKendrick, Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott, 819-956-5372; INAC Media Relations, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, 819-953-1160