Northwest Territories officials are urging the federal government to prolong funding for Jordan’s Principle until 2026. Earlier this year, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) announced adjustments to the program to ensure First Nations children receive essential services without facing gaps or denials due to their identity.
The revisions have caused concern in N.W.T. schools, where numerous education assistant positions are funded through Jordan’s Principle. In Yellowknife Education District No. 1 (YK1), schools are preparing to lose 79 education assistants.
During a recent visit to Ottawa, N.W.T. Education Minister Caitlin Cleveland emphasized the critical need for continued funding in multiple meetings with federal officials. Cleveland stressed the significance of accessible education for children in building healthy communities, supporting economic development, and enhancing Arctic sovereignty.
The alterations in Jordan’s Principle were prompted by instances where funding was misused for non-essential items like home renovations and gaming consoles. Cleveland acknowledged these abuses but highlighted that education bodies in N.W.T. are utilizing the funds in alignment with the policy’s intent, focusing on addressing Indigenous children’s needs.
The revised guidelines will now require every funding application under Jordan’s Principle to be referred by a healthcare professional, a change that N.W.T. Health Minister Lesa Semmler believes will strain an already overburdened system, particularly in remote communities lacking adequate healthcare resources.
Despite expressing concerns to federal counterparts in Ottawa, N.W.T. officials are awaiting clarity on whether the funding extension will be granted, without any specified timeline. Cleveland mentioned that preparations are underway for a contingency plan in case the funding is not extended, citing potential adverse impacts on the delicate system.
