Introduction
The Ministry of Education is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities, cultural revitalization, and lifelong learning for Métis children, youth, families, and communities across British Columbia.
Through Métis-led early learning and child care, culturally grounded programs and resources, and advocacy within the K–12 education system, we work to ensure Métis learners have access to inclusive, equitable, and culturally relevant educational experiences. Our work supports the growth and well-being of Métis children and families while strengthening connections to Métis culture, identity, language, and community.
The Ministry is committed to expanding access to culturally grounded child care, enhancing educational supports and programming for Métis learners from birth to age 18, increasing Métis representation and influence within the education system, and advancing Métis rights and jurisdiction in education and child care. Through partnerships, community engagement, and evidence-based planning, we continue to build a stronger future for Métis children, youth, and families throughout British Columbia.
Ministry Vision
On March 6, 2019, the Government of Canada and the Métis Nation entered into a ten-year Métis Nation Early Learning and Child Care Accord with the goal of implementing the Métis Nation ELCC Framework. The overarching goal of Métis Nation ELCC Framework is to create and enhance early learning programs and supports for Métis children and their families, that is anchored in Métis culture and responsive to the unique needs of Métis children and families.
The Métis Nation has a vision for ELCC in which Métis children and families throughout the Homeland are provided with culturally-relevant, self-empowering ELCC programming and services that focus on the development and maintenance of strong Métis families and communities across the lifespan, beginning at birth. MNBC will promote the healthy growth and development of children and families through experiences grounded in Métis culture and community ways, while Métis-specific wrap-around services, programs and policies will support their ongoing well-being.
One of the most effective ways to ensure that Métis learners, families and communities are reflected in educational institutions is by connecting Métis Chartered Communities with their school districts and post-secondary institutions. The strongest relationships are those built in the community. MNBC supports Métis Chartered Communities by focusing on strengthening provincial and federal relationships and developing educational resources that are Métis-specific. The Métis Nation Relationship Accord II and the Canada-Métis Nation Accord identify education as priorities for improving the lives of Métis people.
MNBC recognizes that to achieve educational success, Métis learners need to see themselves reflected in the education system. This begins in early learning, (kindergarten to grade three) and continues in secondary school and later in post-secondary education. Their Métis culture and heritage need to be recognized and respected.
Programs & Services
Our Ministry offers a variety of programs and services, providing support to Métis children, families, and child care professionals. Métis families can access programs such as our Métis Early Years and Métis Family Connections programs, as well as the Métis child care benefit. Child care professionals can benefit from classroom kits, our Community of Practice, and ongoing professional opportunities.
Child Care Centres
For any inquiries related to child care programming, waitlists, or operator information, please contact childcareprojects@mnbc.ca.
Growing Roots / tsi’semlomet / nutr rassin aahkikinwaa
Modular child care facility located at West Heights Elementary School.
Operator: Metis Family Services
Child Care Spaces:
- Under 26 months (infant and toddler) spaces: 12
- 30 months to school age (3-5) spaces: 12
Address
West Heights Elementary School
32065 Van Velzen Avenue,
Mission, B.C.
Kishkayhtahtaahk Child Care Center
Modular child care facility located in central downtown Terrace.
Operator: Wahkohtowin Child Care Society
Child Care Spaces:
- Under 36 months (infant and toddler) spaces: 12
- 30 months to school age (3-5) spaces: 24
- School age (before and after school) spaces: 8
Address
4617 Greig Avenue,
Terrace, B.C.
Mamawapowin Early Years Center
School-age child care facility located in the Rutland community in Kelowna.
Operator: Metis Community Services Society of B.C.
Child Care Spaces:
- School age (before and after school) spaces: 24
Address
1580 Bernard Avenue,
Kelowna, B.C.
Mamawapowin Early Years Center
Modular child care facility located on the grounds of Maquinna Elementary School.
Operator: Mountain Sage Holistic Child Care Society
Child Care Spaces:
- Under 36 months (infant and toddler) spaces: 12
- 30 months to school age (3-5) spaces: 16
- School age (before and after school) spaces: 10
Address
3818 Melrose Avenue,
Port Alberni, B.C.
Island Métis Child Care Centre
Child care facility located in the community of Colwood / Langford.
Operator: Island Métis Family and Community Services Society
Child Care Spaces:
- Under 36 months (infant and toddler) spaces: 25
- 30 months to school age (3-5) spaces: 8
Address
1581 Church Avenue,
Victoria, B.C.
Videography Projects
Nutr raasin aahkikinwaa (Our Roots Are Growing)
This video explores the importance of planting and harvesting in Métis culture. It was distributed as part of gardening packages for families enrolled in the Métis Family Connections Early Years Program.
Southern Michif Language Videos
The Ministry partnered with Métis educator and Michif language teacher Samson LaMontagne to create a series of fun and educational videos featuring Southern Michif language lessons and songs. These resources can be used by families and educators across the province.
Contact
Early Years
Early Learning and Child Care Professionals:
For Post-Secondary
Please see the Ministry of STEPS page.