A group of Cree students has recently graduated from the Iyeskuwiiu Springboard to DCS program at John Abbott College in Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue. The program, a collaboration between the Cree School Board and the college, is designed to help Cree students prepare for post-secondary education by acquiring necessary prerequisites that they may not have had the chance to obtain in high school. The program is mainly done online in the students’ home communities, allowing them to stay with their families and learn more about their cultures while preparing for higher education. The program is a one-year transition program that helps students keep up with the pace of post-secondary education at John Abbott College or other CEGEPs.
The program started with 20 students, and some graduates have shared their experiences of the challenges they faced. For example, Katie Gilpin, an 18-year-old student from Wemindji, gave birth while taking the course, which made it difficult for her to balance her responsibilities. Despite the challenges, she managed to complete the program but has not yet decided on her future steps. Another student, 25-year-old Christina Pachano from Chisasibi, also faced difficulties during the program and considered quitting at one point. However, she is now planning to continue her education, possibly at John Abbott College, once she has saved up enough money to afford it.
Efforts are being made to provide post-secondary options for students within their communities. This initiative aims to offer options for students who wish to stay in their communities to pursue programs such as nursing or a bachelor’s degree in social sciences. While these options are being developed, students like Pachano, the valedictorian of the graduating cohort, are grateful for completing the program, as it has boosted their confidence and opened up new opportunities for them. Pachano’s success in completing the program has inspired her to pursue further education and overcome the challenges she faced during the course.
The collaboration between the Cree School Board and John Abbott College has allowed Cree students to access educational opportunities that may not have been available to them otherwise. By offering a program that helps students acquire the necessary prerequisites for post-secondary education, the partnership is empowering Indigenous students to pursue higher education and achieve their academic goals. The program’s online format has also allowed students to remain connected to their culture and communities while preparing for their academic futures, ensuring that they can stay rooted in their identities as they pursue their educational aspirations.
The experiences of Katie Gilpin and Christina Pachano highlight the resilience and determination of the Cree students who have completed the program. Despite facing significant challenges, these students have shown perseverance and strength in overcoming obstacles to achieve their educational goals. Their stories serve as inspiration for other Indigenous students who may be considering pursuing higher education, demonstrating that with hard work and support, it is possible to overcome barriers and succeed in academic endeavors. The success of the program and its graduates reflect the importance of providing culturally relevant educational opportunities to Indigenous students and the positive impact it can have on their lives and communities.
