Government of Canada Congratulates the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation on the Grand Opening of the Mne Koodi Headstart Centre

February 5, 2019 — Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, Treaty 6 Territory, Alberta — Indigenous Services Canada

The Government of Canada is working together with First Nations communities to build and upgrade on-reserve education facilities and to support students so they can get the best possible start in life.

The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Indigenous Services Canada congratulates the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation on the recent completion of improvements to their Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve (AHSOR) facility – the Mne Koodi Headstart Centre.

The Government of Canada’s investment of $1,088,276 dollars enabled renovations to the existing space, making the building more energy efficient and accessible for those with mobility challenges. An annex to the facility was added that includes an entrance, office space, kitchen and quiet room for children with special needs. In total, 64 square meters were added to the existing building bringing its size to 230 square meters.

The Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve (AHSOR) program celebrated its 20th anniversary in October 2018. It emphasizes the importance of Indigenous languages and culture, while helping to support healthy childhood development. The Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation is also celebrating the 20th anniversary of AHSOR in their community.

Quotes

“Our government is working together with the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation to create welcoming, stimulating and inspiring learning environments. With the completion of facility upgrades and the grand opening today, First Nations children will have a better learning experience, with supports for language and culture, allowing them to reach their full potential.”

The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Indigenous Services

“Our future leaders are starting their education journey with a strong foundation. The renovation and addition to the Mne Koodi Head Start Centre provides a safe, accessible place for the needs of all of our youngest members. The Head Start program is an important stepping stone for our children to build successful futures and strengthen their spirit.”

Tony Alexis
Chief of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation

Quick facts

• The Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation is located on the north shore of Lac Ste. Anne, 85 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, Alberta. It has 2066 members, 1171 of whom live in the community.
• For the past 20 years, the Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve (AHSOR) program has been providing culture and language services and supports that allow children to develop a sense of belonging and identity as a First Nations person, and to learn and retain their First Nations languages.
• The program has six components: education, health promotion, culture and language, nutrition, social support, and parental/family involvement. Projects funded under AHSOR are designed and implemented by First Nations communities to meet their specific needs.

Associated links

• Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation
• Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve (AHSOR)

Contacts

For more information, media may contact:

Rachel Rappaport
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Seamus O’Regan
Minister of Indigenous Services
819-934-2796

Media Relations
Indigenous Services Canada
819-953-1160
SAC.media.ISC@canada.ca

Shani Gwin
Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation
587-984-6660
shani@gwincommunications.com

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