All First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students at the Greater Essex County District School Board, have the right to voluntarily self-identify as Indigenous. We need to know who the First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students are so we can provide programming, services and supports that best address their needs.
We will use the data from the self-identification process to increase funding for specific Indigenous education programs in our schools.
How to self-identify
Please complete the Self-Identification form and return it to your school. If you're under the age of 18, you'll need to get a signature from a parent or guardian.
You don't need to provide proof of ancestry as part of the self-identification process. You can withdraw the self-identification at any time through a written request to the Principal of your school.
Please note
We will secure all data to respect your privacy. We will only use this data to enhance First Nations, Métis, and Inuit education programs.
Self-identification policy
Our Self-Identification Policy indicates that the GECDSB can collect personal data related to First Nations, Metis and Inuit ancestry for the following purposes:
- Assisting schools in better understanding the demographics of their populations
- Assisting the school board in assessing which schools require additional support programming, targeted initiatives and the involvement of family and community in the school
- Identifying First Nations, Metis and Inuit students who may benefit from additional support
The data also help measure the Board's effectiveness in improving the:
- Achievement rate of First Nations, Metis and Inuit students
- Retention rate of First Nations, Metis and Inuit students
- Graduation rate of First Nations, Metis and Inuit students