Nine 24-passenger buses have recently been purchased for our Youth Sector schools to support land-based learning programs, cultural activities, and other traditional initiatives that help connect students to the land and iiyiyiuiyihtiwin.
This initiative has been in development for the past three years. In 2023, the Council of Commissioners mandated Deputy Director General (Operations) Andy Baribeau to proceed with the purchase of the buses. However, post-pandemic supply chain challenges, along with the implementation of new laws and tariffs contributed to delays in the process.
The Cree School Board (CSB) is proud to announce that each community will be getting one bus for use, with the buses expected to be fully distributed within the next two weeks.
In recent weeks, some community members in Mistissini have asked on social media, "What are these buses for?" as the buses have been seen around the community while final preparations are being completed. By improving access to land-based programming, these buses will help strengthen students' connections to the land and support learning rooted in iiyiyiu traditions and ways of life.
This has been an important initiative for the Council of Commissioners and aligns with the Cree School Board's 2021-2026 Strategic Action Plan (SAP), particularly its themes of iiyiyiuiyihtiwin, student experience, and educational success.
For more information on the 2021-2026 Strategic Action Plan, visit the SAP page.
