Derek Neary
Northern News Services

FORT SIMPSON (Nov 13/98) - Liidlii Kue First Nations Chief Rita Cli told members of the District Education Authority that she has "real concerns" with children being pushed through the education system in Fort Simpson.

At Monday evening's annual general meeting, Cli said band members have expressed apprehension to her because they feel their children are being advanced in grade levels despite their inability to complete the work.

Some students are graduating even though they cannot even read or write, she contended.

"They're not ready. I've seen it myself. What kind of monitoring system is in place for this, so these kids aren't an embarrassment to themselves or this community?" she asked.

"I am concerned because it has to do with my First Nations, my kids. I'd like to see my people come back educated one day to see them sit where you are sitting," she told the DEA members.

Bompas principal Terry Jaffray said students are generally kept with their peers because studies have shown that they perform best in such an environment. They are placed with their "family group" so as not to retard their social and emotional development as well, Jaffray noted.

Academically, students who are not progressing are placed on a modified program. Their report cards distinguish between their grade placement and their working level, according to Jaffray.

She said parents are notified, by phone and by written correspondence, and encouraged to meet with school staff to discuss their child's development. Students aren't put on special programs without parental permission, she added.

DEA member Shane Thompson told Cli she had "some really valid concerns" which also exist in other regions. He also noted that the Department of Education has an "inclusionary policy" which states students can't be kept more than two years behind their peers.

"Unfortunately, there are people who fall between the cracks," he said. "It's a challenge."

Since Cli mentioned that some band members do not feel comfortable coming to DEA meetings, Thompson suggested that Bompas teacher Carnie Williams, who deals with students on modified programs, should meet with those concerned at a meeting of their own. Williams also offered to outline the correspondence process to Cli and the parents.

"That would be a start," Cli responded.

Earlier in the evening, it was also announced that the minister of education has approved an eighth seat on the DEA exclusively for a band representative.