Minister Cleveland and Education Leaders meet to discuss shared education priorities

Press Release

April 22, 2026

Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Minister Caitlin Cleveland met with Education Leaders from across the Northwest Territories in Yellowknife on April 22, 2026, to discuss shared priorities, strengthen collaboration, and identify next steps to support students and education systems across the territory.

The meeting opened with a prayer song by the Yellowknives Dene First Nation drummers, including student drummers from N.J, Macpherson School, and brought together representatives from Divisional Education Councils (DECs), District Education Authorities (DEAs), and education bodies from all regions.

Education Leaders reviewed and approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes, received updates on action items, and formally approved key guiding documents, including the Education Leaders’ Terms of Reference and a Communication, Collaboration and Information Sharing Agreement. These documents will support more consistent engagement, clearer roles, and strengthen coordination between the parties.

Minister Cleveland provided an update on her mandate and current priorities, emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships with education bodies, Indigenous governments, and communities to improve outcomes for students across the territory.

A key focus of the meeting was inclusive schooling. Participants discussed next steps following the GNWT’s recently completed review on inclusive schooling, which included a commitment from all parties to work together to strengthen supports for students across the territory. The GNWT’s 2026–2027 budget negotiations committed to including an additional $30 million to support inclusive education, which will help education bodies fill the gap created by reduced federal funding through Jordan’s Principle. A public announcement on the inclusive schooling review will go out in May.

Education Leaders also discussed the current status of Jordan’s Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative funding. The GNWT continues to engage with federal partners regarding recent funding decisions and their impacts on students and school programming. Partners remain committed to ensuring students have access to the supports they need, regardless of funding source.

Additional discussions focused on governance and system supports, including updating the handbook for DEAs and DECs, as well as expanded governance training opportunities. Participants also discussed emerging considerations related to social media and artificial intelligence in school settings, and how we can best support educators in navigating artificial intelligence in the classroom.

Education Leaders engaged in a roundtable discussion on priorities, which included cell phone use in schools and home schooling, as well as supports for students in small schools and those accessing Northern Distance Learning. Updates were also provided on lead and copper testing in school drinking water, with discussions on remediation efforts and next steps.

The meeting included updates on Education Act modernization, including regulatory amendments and legislative progress. Throughout the day, participants emphasized the importance of collaboration, clear communication, and a shared commitment to supporting student well-being, achievement, and success.

The next Education Leaders meeting will be held in November 2026.

Quotes

“I am pleased to have another opportunity to hold a constructive meeting with the Education Leaders of the Northwest Territories and I am glad to see the progress made over the past few months. As the school year concludes, I want to thank the Education Leaders for their ongoing dedication. This collaboration is essential as there is plenty of work ahead of us to continue improving NWT students’ outcomes.”
– Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment

“The Northwest Territories Education Leaders Meeting is a vital opportunity for Board Chairs, Superintendents, and our education partners to come together, share perspectives, and strengthen collaboration across the territory. While our communities are diverse, our commitment to student success is shared. These conversations help ensure our education system remains responsive, inclusive, and grounded in the needs of learners across the North.”

– Tina Schauerte, Chairperson, Yellowknife Catholic Schools

For media requests, please contact:
Agata Gutkowska
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Agata_Gutkowska@gov.nt.ca
867-767-9352 ext. 71073

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