Why We Exist - Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada

Why We Exist

By working with northern First Nations to recruit, prepare, and support committed teachers, we can begin to make education more equal.

THE CHALLENGE

Education in Canada continues to demonstrate high overall quality, yet significant disparities persist. In 2021, approximately 45% of First Nations people aged 25 to 64 had completed a postsecondary certificate, degree, or diploma, a rate lower than the national average of 68%. This underlines the enduring gap in educational attainment between First Nations people and non-Indigenous Canadians (Statistics Canada, 2023). These challenges are compounded by barriers like limited access to quality education and ongoing issues with teacher recruitment and retention, particularly in remote First Nations.

Gakino’amaage partners with education directors, principals, teachers, education assistants, and students within First Nations to address these inequities through tailored programming in educator recruitment, preparation, and support. Guided by the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, our approach centers on culturally responsive teaching and reciprocal learning with First Nations, fostering stronger, more resilient educational foundations for future generations.

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PERCENT of First Nations people living on reserve hold a postsecondary qualification

THE RIGHT KIND OF TEACHERS

The right kind of teacher can help fill this gap. We work with First Nations education leaders, principals, teachers, and many others to recruit and select teachers who have the motivations, aptitude, and fit to be successful in a northern First Nation. Once selected, we provide teachers with a community-focused summer preparation program and provide ongoing support during a teacher’s minimum two-year teaching commitment in the North. Inspired by the leadership of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action on Education, Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada teachers emphasize a spirit of reciprocal learning in the classroom and community.

SUPPORTING STUDENT SUCCESS

Currently, there are 141 Gakino’amaage educators working in 32 partner First Nations in Northern Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan. These educators have launched student councils, coached sports teams, started music programs, led dance classes, developed school websites, hosted radio shows, organized field trips, run outdoor activities, and more. Their inspirational approach to teaching and leadership is increasing student attendance, student engagement, and student achievement.

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Gakino'amaage Educators

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First Nations in Northern Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan

JOIN THE MOVEMENT TO MAKE EDUCATION MORE EQUAL

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“My own experience of being inspired by teachers is why I support Teach For Canada. I believe that Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada could truly revolutionize the entire country.”

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COREY COOK

Top 20 Under 20, Bloodvein First Nation