What's happening?

School District 8 (SD8) has announced that it will eliminate all Indigenous Education teacher positions in elementary and middle schools for the 2026–2027 school year,  including  Trafalgar, South Nelson, Rosemont, Hume, Wildflower, WEG, and Blewett.  These roles will be replaced with support‑only positions (EAs). This decision was made without consulting Indigenous families, students, or the affected school communities.

The newly formed Indigenous Education Council (IEC) is comprised of two members of The Ktunaxa Nation, two members of The Syilx Nation, two members of The Secwepemc Nation and one member of The West Kootenay Metis Society. They did not visit the Nelson schools before making this decision. No Sinixt or Nelson area representation was included in the process. The new model they have scheduled is based on a model from Creston schools. Nelson is not Creston.  

How The Indigenous Education Program Impacts Schools
The AbEd program at Trafalgar and other sd8 schools has become a source of connection, learning, and community building. It's impact extends far beyond the Indigenous student population. Through events like the Children’s Heartbeat Parade, Moosehide Campaign Day, Métis Day, restorative circles with Elders, cultural workshops and school‑wide teachings, the program has helped create a more respectful, inclusive, and culturally aware school environment for all students. Teachers, administrators, and families have seen a noticeable cultural shift:

• Stronger relationships between students and staff
• Increased understanding of Indigenous history and culture
• More inclusive school‑wide practices
• A sense of pride and community that benefits every student 

Eliminating Indigenous Education teachers doesn’t just remove support for Indigenous students—it removes a pillar of cultural learning and community connection for the entire school.

What We Are Asking For
We are calling on The SD8 school board, Trustees and the Indigenous Education Council to:

• Pause all changes to Indigenous Education staffing in elementary and middle schools.
• Hold a public consultation with Nelson and area Indigenous families, students, and community members.
• Visit the affected schools to understand the cultural programming, relationships and community impact that will be lost.
• Ensure LOCAL voices are included in decisions that directly affect our children.

Why Your Signature Matters
Community voices have changed decisions in this district before—including protecting Wildflower’s K‑9 structure and stopping the closure of Reach. We can do it again. By signing this petition, you stand with Indigenous students, families and community members who deserve to be heard.

 Sign now to protect Indigenous Education teachers and ensure families, elders, community members and teachers in the Nelson area are consulted.