Esk’etemc Leaders Demand Inclusive School Response Plan Revisions

Community leaders from Esk’etemc are expressing dissatisfaction with the recent Response Plan issued by the Cariboo-Chilcotin School District 27 (SD 27). The plan follows a ministry-ordered review aimed at addressing systemic racism and improving the educational environment. In an open letter published on September 10, 2023, the Chief and Council criticized the plan for failing to engage Indigenous voices meaningfully, which they argue undermines its stated goals.

The Esk’etemc community, located approximately 45 minutes southwest of Williams Lake, has been vocal about experiences of racism and violence within SD 27. Their concerns, along with those raised by the Concerned Parents and Caregivers of Williams Lake (CPWL), culminated in a peaceful rally outside the school district headquarters in April 2023. Kukpi7 (Chief) Fred Robbins articulated the community’s disappointment, stating, “I called for an investigation…instead, a review was completed.”

Minister of Education and Child Care Lisa Beare had commissioned Safer Schools Together (SST) to conduct a climate and culture review of SD 27 earlier this year. The review’s summary and recommendations were published in late spring, leading to the development of the Response Plan, which was released in August. Key components of the plan include SST presentations to students on bullying and online safety, tailored to identified needs, alongside sessions for parents to foster engagement.

In an interview, Cheryl Lenardon, SD 27 Superintendent, emphasized the evolving nature of the Response Plan, stating, “This is not a one-and-done.” She noted that updates would likely occur as the plan is refined. Despite this openness to future modifications, the plan was developed without direct input from Esk’etemc or CPWL, which has raised significant concerns among community leaders.

“Despite repeated requests to be meaningfully included in the process, Esk’etemc and other Nations were not consulted or engaged in the development of this Response Plan,” the Chief and Council stated. Robbins reiterated the necessity for direct involvement, expressing a desire to ensure that Indigenous students receive a supportive educational experience.

Lenardon acknowledged the plan’s infancy, explaining that the SD 27 aims to involve working groups to address issues surrounding anti-Indigenous racism and to foster a healthier school environment. She mentioned that collaborations with the Indigenous Education Council (IEC) had already commenced in June to tackle these challenges.

The letter from Esk’etemc leadership outlines several key recommendations for the Response Plan. Among these is an explicit acknowledgment of systemic anti-Indigenous racism within the district and an appeal for “bold” actions to combat it. They also called for alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those relevant to education and Indigenous rights.

“SD 27 will have to prioritize anti-racism education and ensure a culturally safe learning environment for Indigenous students,” Robbins asserted. Lenardon responded by highlighting the plan’s commitment to anti-racism, indicating a shift towards a more holistic approach in tackling these critical issues.

Robbins expressed skepticism about the plan’s effectiveness, stating, “It has potential, but there’s no monitoring.” He emphasized the need for community oversight and engagement in the implementation process. Lenardon assured that monitoring is integral to the Response Plan, with specific recommendations for accountability and updates on progress.

Efforts to improve communication between SD 27 and stakeholders are also underway, with Lenardon noting that a new communication plan aims to clarify engagement processes and provide opportunities for community input. She believes these initiatives will help bridge gaps and address misunderstandings.

Robbins, however, remains insistent on the need for a thorough investigation involving First Nations in order to ensure accountability in the district’s processes. He noted that the current complaint procedures appear ineffective and called for a mechanism that truly addresses community grievances.

In late August, discussions took place between SD 27 leadership, SST representatives, and Esk’etemc leaders, following a postponed meeting with Minister Beare. According to an email from the Ministry of Education and Child Care, plans are in place for Beare to host a roundtable discussion with First Nation leaders in November.

Robbins looks forward to further dialogue, stating, “We had some headway on discussions of the report, but we still need to meet with the minister again.” The ongoing discourse underscores the community’s commitment to ensuring that Indigenous students receive equitable support and representation within the educational framework.