NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
GNWT Launches Interim Support Assistants Initiative to Maintain Classroom Supports

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is allocating up to $14 million to implement the Support Assistants Initiative for the 2025-26 school year, ensuring students continue to receive the in-class support they need despite recent changes to federal funding.

The temporary initiative is a direct response to recent changes in federal funding under Jordan's Principle - a program that has long provided vital supports to Indigenous students in schools throughout the Northwest Territories (NWT).

Recent changes to Indigenous Services Canada's (ISC) operating procedures have had immediate impacts on territorial schools, leading to layoffs of support assistants, staffing disruptions, and a widening gap in service delivery challenges that disproportionately affect schools in smaller or remote communities.

The temporary Support Assistants Initiative aims to address these challenges in the interim and ensure continuity of services as the school year begins. The initiative also informs the government's ongoing Inclusive Schooling Review, helping to build a more equitable and resilient student support model across the territory.

This announcement follows months of dedicated advocacy by the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), which has included direct engagement with federal ministers and officials in Ottawa. The GNWT has consistently called for a sustainable, federally supported model that addresses the needs of all Indigenous students.

While the Government of Canada recently indicated that their operating procedures are under further review, timely action is crucial. Students, families, and schools require stability and clarity. The Support Assistant Initiative aims to bridge the gap and maintain essential services while the GNWT continues to advocate for long-term, systemic solutions.

Quotes:

"Through the Support Assistants Initiative, we're stepping in to protect student supports but territorial resources are limited. The Government of Canada must commit to a sustainable, regionally appropriate solution that reflects the realities of Northern education. Jordan's Principle isn't supplemental in the North it's essential. The recent changes have left schools in limbo and students at risk of losing vital help. We'll continue to stand with Indigenous governments, families, and communities to ensure every child has the support they deserve."

Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

"As Chair of the Northwest Territories Superintendents Association, I am pleased that there continues to be collective advocacy for these essential student supports occurring across the Northwest Territories. The new Support Assistants Initiative is an important response to changes in Jordan's Principle funding and will help ensure students continue to receive the critical supports they need for success. We welcome this commitment and will keep advocating for our students."

Shirley Zouboules, Superintendent, Yellowknife Education District No. 1 and Chair of the Northwest Territories Superintendents Association

Quick facts

• Support Assistants Initiative funding has two key conditions: 
• Education bodies should apply any existing surpluses toward support assistant positions.
• To ensure the GNWT acts as funder of last resort for the 2025-26 school year, federal funding must have been denied or delayed. 
• The GNWT will work collaboratively with education bodies to ensure they have the funding they need to support students and educators in the new school year.
• Support assistants are vital to inclusive education in the NWT. They contribute to the social and emotional development of students, particularly those facing trauma, intergenerational impacts of colonialism, and mental health challenges. Their presence fosters trust, safety and connection in school environments.
• Indigenous governments, MLAs, and families are united with the GNWT in calling for action. The North has been clear and consistent: we're ready to work together, but Ottawa needs to follow through.

Related Link:

• Information on Support Assistants