The Education Department offers the following supports and programs:

​

• Elementary Schools
   

• Secondary Schools
   

• School Boards
   

• Post-Secondary Institutions
   

• Incentive Programs
   

• MPLAR Program
   

• Adult Learning
   

• Online Learning
   

• Early Years Program
   

• Cree Language App Program

• ​

• Headstart Program - Launching

​

From Education Director, Neil Iserhoff

 

"I have the rewarding opportunity to work with the schools advocating for our Indigenous learners in all regards, including Special Education Learners and promoting parental involvement as a supportive liaison.

 

In March of 2021, my supportive role needed to be continued virtually. I continued to work closely with both District School Boards promoting student engagement and attendance, which is essential for overall student achievement and success. 

 

I continue virtual representation on the Indigenous People’s Advisory Board for District School Board Ontario North East (DSBONE). Prior to the pandemic, I attended various other educational conferences, workshops and committee meetings maintaining strong positive partnerships. I anxiously wait for them to resume."

 

2020-2021

The past academic year, we had a total of 23 students living in our community attending Elementary and Secondary schools in Cochrane. One student graduated from Elementary School and three students graduated from Ecole Secondaire Cochrane High School.  All graduates were honoured at their school virtual graduations receiving a bursary to acknowledge this milestone in their educational careers.  We had to do it differently but managed to find a safe way to acknowledge their great accomplishments.

 

In terms of our post-secondary students, we sponsored a total of 35 students, and I am pleased to report that 13 students completed their studies graduating from their respective programs also receiving an incentive for obtaining their degree and/or certificate. With the pandemic, some chose to return home to continue their studies virtually. 

 

2021-2022

We face the same challenge in this upcoming year with some students starting and continuing their post- secondary studies virtually. This year, we are sponsoring 39 students. The students who were approved consisted of 24 continuing students, 2 students who successfully completed their program and are now pursuing studies in a related field, 7 mature students and 6 new students who recently graduated at the Secondary level. I am confident that they will all be successful with their educational endeavors this upcoming academic year. I will continue to support them during these trying and unprecedented times.