June 22, 2022 (Akwesasne) – The Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB), in partnership with the Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education (AMBE), have officially entered into a new five-year service agreement.
This service agreement allows students from AMBE to attend high school at UCDSB schools, specifically Cornwall Collegiate & Vocational School (CCVS).
“We have developed a strong relationship with the Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education. We work well together to provide students with more than the provincially-mandated curriculum and have added culturally-relevant courses and experiences that help Indigenous students see themselves reflected in what they’re learning,” explains Executive Superintendent of Student Achievement and Innovation Eric Hardie.
“The Ahkwesahsne Mohawk Board of Education values our strong relationship with the Upper Canada District School Board,” says Donna Lahache, AMBE Director of Education. “The ongoing collaboration and open communication with the CCVS and AMBE Team continues to enhance services and opportunities for Akwesasne students.”
The UCDSB is situated on traditional Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee Territory and puts a strong focus on Indigenous education throughout the school board, all year long. There are opportunities for students to learn about culture and history from elders and knowledge keepers at all grade levels.
At CCVS specifically, there is a Mohawk Language course, an after-school for-credit lacrosse program, and a Thompson Island cultural camp experience that is also for credit, reach-ahead credits for Grade 8 students coming to CCVS, along with Indigenous Leadership programs and opportunities.
“This partnership is more than just a service agreement. It’s a commitment from the Upper Canada District School Board to provide students with the opportunity to learn more about themselves, and the culture around them. All students benefit from this agreement and I’m looking forward to what is to come in the future,” says UCDSB Chair John McAllister.
