An Indigenous education group is pushing to expand the Coast Mountains School Board from seven to nine trustees to better reflect the district’s student population. Nearly half of the students identify as Indigenous, yet current representation does not match these demographics.
The Inter-Tribal Education Committee (ITEC) proposes creating four new electoral zones representing Haisla, Tsimshian, Gitxsan, and Wet’suwet’en Nations. These trustees would be elected by their respective nations during municipal elections. Existing representation for Kitimat and Terrace would be reduced, while other areas retain their seats.
ITEC representative Monica Sims says the plan aligns with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and aims to ensure designated education funds are used effectively. Kitimat council has expressed support, and the proposal is now under review by the Ministry of First Nations and Child Care. Meanwhile, the Coast Mountains School Board has acknowledged the proposal but has yet to take a position.
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