Education

Mission Statement

"To protect the rights of education and ensure education for all our people for generations to come, wherever they reside. We accomplish this by effectively managing our resources, developing appropriate laws and policies, encouraging our children to value the choices offered by high quality education and educating our neighbors so they will be more tolerant of our beliefs." 

Have you been considering going to university, college, or taking a training course to advance your skills and/or education? 

It has been said that knowledge is power. The journey of life takes us all on a path of discovery of self. We often walk many paths in the course of our development. These experiences contribute to our growth while expanding our character, perspective, and intellect. Learning is a lifelong process essential to how we adapt and participate in the world around us. Our ancestors used storytelling as a form of sharing ideas while at the same time, transferring valuable teachings that could be carried to the next generation. 

Coming together to discuss, debate, and share ideas is how we learn to become critical thinkers. In this ever-changing world around us, a higher education is deemed necessary and arguably plays a crucial role in one's future success. Invariably, the more you learn in life, the more doors open to you, hence, more options and opportunities are available for you to seize in life. The costs associated with obtaining a higher education involve personal commitment, sacrifice, not to mention the financial burden experienced by many. 

Did you know that as an AFN band member, you may qualify for financial assistance through AFN's post-secondary education policy to help you realize your goals?  

Eligibility 

Before applying for a program, contact the Education Director, Janice Francis, to determine if the institution is on the eligibility list. 

Important application deadline dates to remember are June 15 (regular fall/winter Program) and April 15 (Summer Courses). 

If you are a registered Acadia First Nation band member who can achieve the following, you may be eligible for funding:

• Has met post secondary entrance requirements
• Has resided in Canada for 12 months prior to applying
• Agree (with signature) to abide by the AFN's post-secondary education policy

(See Acadia First Nation Post Secondary Educational Assistance Program Policy) 

An additional requirement of the funding process is to provide the Education Director with a written education plan outlining the following:

• Your career goals
• Which career, trade or profession are you interested in most and why?
• How does the labor market indicate a need for this role/career?
• What opportunities are available for employment?
• What program/course best serves your interest, and how?

Ongoing communication with the Director throughout your course study is an integral component of maintaining funding qualifications. Any and all changes to your course study must be discussed and disclosed to the Director. 

How is funding allocated? 

Each year, limited funds are provided to AFN specifically for education from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). There are usually more applicants than there are funds, so a priority list has been established to assist in the selection process.

• Returning students are given top priority.
• The remaining priority falls to this order of student categories:
  • Medical leave students
  • Targeted students
  • Newly graduated students
  • Self-funded students 
    Previously successful students
  • Mature students
  • Delinquent students
• All applications are considered in this priority, based on available funds.
• An appeals process is in place however, there are no grounds for an appeal if the decision is based on lack of funds.

If you are uncertain about which category you may fall under, please contact Janice at the Medway office and/or see section 6 of the policy for more details. 

34 Acadia First Nation Post-Secondary students were funded in 2013-2014, 29 full time students and 5 part-time students. 

What is covered? 

• If approved, the following are eligible to be covered: 
• Tuition fees, books and supplies 
• Foreign studies (see section 14.5) 
• Distance education (without living allowance) 
• Special clothing/equipment 
• Tutorial costs associated with the enrolled program 

In some cases, letters must be written or obtained to receive funding. (Section 14) Application fees will be reimbursed to new applicants upon approval of funding as well. 

Costs that are not eligible to be covered include: 

• Childcare 
• Daily travel 
• Dental/medical fees/insurance 
• Monthly household expenses 
• Moving expenses 
• Programs at private institutions 

AFN takes pride in our students; your efforts and your commitment to success are taken very seriously and you are encouraged to focus on your studies and continue to success!