March 16, 2020

Sent to BC First Nation Schools and Communities on behalf of Deborah Jeffrey, FNESC Executive Director

During these challenging times we wanted you to be aware of the changes that the First Nations Education Steering Committee (FNESC) is making to our usual operations in order to protect the health and safety of students, communities, and staff.

Between now and April 30, 2020, all FNESC events including workshops, meetings, and conferences are being cancelled, postponed or, moved to a virtual format.  Individual event updates will be sent out as soon as possible.

In addition, for the time being, FNESC is ceasing all staff travel for work purposes, including scheduled trips to First Nations schools. Coaches, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and all other staff who support your school will be available to provide online coaching and support to teachers and assistants as requested.  Staff will also be available to provide online professional development opportunities to your school.  Every effort will be made to ensure your services and supports will continue uninterrupted.

Given the evolving nature of the pandemic, we will continue to update you regularly by email regarding our services and other information of relevance to your community and schools. The latest news from FNESC and the FNSA relating to our COVID-19 response is available at www.fnesc.ca/covid19, where you will also find links to a number of resources that will be useful to families, schools, and communities.

We regret the inconvenience that these changes cause and thank you very much for your understanding and patience.  Your questions and feedback are very welcome.

Sincerely,

Deborah Jeffrey
Executive Director
First Nations Education Steering Committee | First Nations Schools Association | Indigenous Adult & Higher Learning Association