Last week, the Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation voiced concerns over the planned cut of 80 EA positions in Saskatoon Public Schools, citing a significant shortfall in Jordan's Principle funding.
According to the Government of Canada website, Jordan's Principle "makes sure all First Nations children living in Canada can access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. Funding can help with a wide range of health, social and educational needs, including the unique needs that First Nations Two-Spirit and LGBTQQIA children and youth and those with disabilities may have. Introduced in 2007, it was instituted in the name of Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba.
While Jordan's Principle funding is only to be used in "responsible ways", the STF is blowing the whistle following the latest announcement.
"Reminder: Families and school divisions have relied on Jordan’s Principle for educational supports only because the Saskatchewan government has underfunded public education for nearly a decade." shared the post to their Facebook.
STF President Samantha Becotte doesn't want to have to seek out the extra funding, calling it the responsibility of the government.
"This is a Government of Saskatchewan responsibility. We shouldn't be looking at grants or charitable foundations to subsidize what is a responsibility of the provincial government."
It needs to be pointed out that Jordan's Principle is a federal program, not something in control of the Sask. Party, though Becotte's targeted statement to the government still underscores the lack of funding that the STF has at their disposal.
Regardless of the politics, there are now less support staff for Saskatoon students during a time where they are needed more than ever. In a time where Saskatchewan needs another 80 EA's, losing the nearly 100 educational staff will certainly be a burden for Saskatchewan students.