Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) and Maskwacis Education School Commission (MESC) have officially extended an Educational Services Agreement that will strengthen the sharing of resources and relationships between the two organizations.
"The efforts, energy and the prayers today, that is what we think about, and that is what it's all about this agreement, this relationship. We have an ethical responsibility to uphold on behalf of all of our children, not just Maskwacis children, but all of our children," said Dr. Shauna Bruno, MESC Board Chair.
Part of the purpose of the agreement, which has been extended for five years, is to secure a harmonious and close consultative relationship between WCPS and MESC, and to implement agreed policies and educational programs.
"Today underscores how incredibly fortunate we are at Wolf Creek to have you as such close neighbors and colleagues. And the renewal of this agreement allows us to continue to build the bonds between us, grounded in a spirit of understanding and respect," said Luci Henry, Wolf Creek Public Schools' Board Chair.
Against the backdrop of two tipis, symbols of cultural heritage and resilience, the signing ceremony itself served as a poignant reminder of the shared vision and dedication driving both institutions forward.
"I want to acknowledge everyone, all staff and the superintendent, the executive and the elders and everyone," said Bruno. "This is part of the work and ethical responsibility we all have; it is sustaining not only our cultural traditions in our schools and communities, but in our relationship to the land and Mother Earth. I am so thankful to be on their journey."
Henry said Wolf Creek is deeply enriched by the partnership with MESC and with elders and community leaders from Maskwacis.
"Every day, we strive to instill these values throughout our schools, creating an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued," said Henry.
The agreement is about moving forward with the knowledge about being stronger together.
"The renewed partnership with MESC and WCPS enables the two school systems to work together in reconciliation, ensuring authentic content is taught and learned. As neighbours, we are demonstrating wahkohtowin because all children are important," said Tracy Swampy-Sylvester, MESC Superintendent.
It's a sentiment shared by WCPS Superintendent Tim De Ruyck.
"We can't say enough about the support we get from MESC, and the broader community of Maskwacis from the residents and Elders. I have spoken with other divisions that are wanting a partnership such as we have, that truly puts a focus on reconciliation and on students," said De Ruyck. "What we do is not about pausing education to focus on indigenous education. It's about the way we want to be, it's part of what we do day-to-day."
The signing of this document extends an agreement originally formed in 2019.
