Regional discussion will focus on drafting Postsecondary Education Policy Framework

November 13, 2009 — The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is pleased to invite members of the Métis community to upcoming regional discussions focused on education and training. Education and skills development for Métis across Ontario continue to be critical priorities for the MNO. These values are entrenched within the MNO’s Statement of Prime Purpose and clearly identified within the five year Strategic Plan.

The MNO has secured funding from the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities (MTCU) to embark on several Métis community education discussions. We seek your feedback regarding the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU) draft Postsecondary Education and Training Policy Framework for Aboriginal Learners. As well we are interested in gathering your views on existing education and training programs available for Métis and assistance in identifying priorities, gaps and potential enhancements.

The Ministry has a very tight timeframe for their overall review and as such sessions are commencing promptly. There will be a section on the MNO website that will allow Métis people across Ontario to submit responses and recommendations electronically if unable to attend in person.

Feel free to share this invitation widely with other Métis who have a direct interest in education and training. We extend a special welcome to: senators, college and university students, parents, and educators of all types. Your participation is crucial to these deliberations and to ensuring that the Province’s post-secondary education and training system respects and includes the voice of Métis people across Ontario. Please note that you may also be aware of additional sessions taking place across Ontario as part of MTCU’s broader engagement on the draft framework.

To obtain a hard copy of the framework please contact Guylaine Morin-Cleroux at 1800-263-4889 or 613-798-1488 ext 116.

All sessions except for Midland will be held from 5 PM to 9 PM (dinner and refreshments included). In Midland, the First Light events are in the evenings so the education meeting will be from 12:00 to 5:00.

Monday November 23, 2009

Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Location: Hamilton, 678 Main Street, third floor

Friday November 27, 2009

Time: Noon to 5:00 PM

Location: Midland, Sainte Marie Among the Hurons

Tuesday December 1, 2009

Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Location: Timmins, Metis Nation of Ontario Timmins office 347 Spruce St. south

Tuesday December 8, 2009

Time: 5:00 to 9:00 PM

Location: Fort Frances, Metis Nation of Ontario Sunset Metis Community center

Please RSVP your attendance to Bonny Cann as soon as possible to bonnyc@metisnation.org or via telephone 1800-446-6684. Reasonable travel costs will be covered as budget permits.

For further information please contact:

Bonny Cann

Provincial Education Initiatives Coordinator

Tel: (416) 977-9881 extension 102 or toll free 1888-466-6684

Fax: (416) 977-9911