LAKELAND - Several Treaty Six First Nations will be receiving funding from the Government of Alberta to support mental health in on-reserve schools.
According to information released by the province, a total of $4.2 million will be going to 27 First Nations across the province, including Cold Lake First Nation, Frog Lake First Nation, Heart Lake First Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, and Whitefish Lake Education Authority.
“Strong mental health and learning supports are crucial to helping students build resilience and succeed in school,” said Minister of Education and Childcare Demetrios Nicolaides.
“This grant will empower communities to deliver the learning and mental health supports that are right for their students,” said Nicolaides.
The funding will be used to pay for supports for students with hearing, vision, and complex communication needs, as well as supports for students with emotional and behavioural needs. That support could come in the form of family school liaisons, school counsellors, occupational and physical therapy, training for teachers and staff, and social-emotional education in classrooms.
“This grant will give students on First Nations another tool in their toolbox to set them up for success,” said Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Rick Wilson.
“Building mental wellness in youth not only improves academic outcomes but lays a foundation for a lifetime of positive mental health practices,” said Wilson.
According to the province, they are also supporting First Nations, Métis and Inuit students attending public schools across the province with $94 million going to public school boards in the 2025-26 school year for similar initiatives.
