The availability of data on Aboriginal student achievement in Ontario’s provincially funded school system is a critical foundation for the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs to support the needs of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students. Building Bridges to Success for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Students was designed to help Ontario school boards develop effective policies and practices for voluntary, confidential Aboriginal student self-identification. In it, you will find: Background information on the self-identification process and its relationship to Ontario’s education policy framework for First Nation, Métis and Inuit students; A recommended process for developing effective voluntary, confidential self-identification policies and practices; Case studies illustrating successful practices in Ontario school boards; Practical tools you can use to develop, implement, and communicate policies and practices; Reference information on the collection and use of personal information, ministry contacts, and selected provincial and local Aboriginal organizations. The development of effective self-identification policies by Ontario school boards is a significant step toward ensuring that First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students receive the highest possible quality of education, and that all Ontario students benefit from an appreciation of the richness of Aboriginal cultures, and the important contributions of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit communities to Ontario’s cultural, economic and social future. .

External link. Electronic reproduction. Available online at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/aboriginal/buildBridges.pdf. Also published in French with title: Les chemins de la réussite pour les élèves des Premières nations, Métis et Inuit.

About This Guide -- Why Self-Identification? Why Now? -- Developing a Self-Identification Policy -- Step 1: Foundations -- Step 2: Consultation -- Step 3: Implementation -- Successful Practices for School Boards -- Keewatin-Patricia and Kenora Catholic District School Boards -- Grand Council Treaty #3 -- Toronto District School Board -- Aboriginal Peoples’ Council of Toronto -- Tools You Can Use -- Newsletter/Brochure -- Aboriginal Student Self-Identification Policy-- Agenda from a Community Forum -- Policy Developer’s Checklist -- Appendices: Appendix A: Memo to Directors of Education Regarding EQAO Board and School Results for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit Students -- Appendix B: Ministry of Education Contacts -- Appendix C: Section 8.1 of the Ontario Education Act: Collection and Use of Personal Information -- Appendix D: Selected Provincial and Local Aboriginal Organizations.