The Board of Education of School District No. 8 (Kootenay Lake) supports Indigenous-led decision making in public education and the implementation of Bill 40, as outlined in K-12 Education Act. We recognize the inherent rights and responsibilities of Indigenous Nations in the education of Indigenous children and youth.

We believe meaningful reconciliation requires strong partnerships grounded in respect, shared responsibility, and Indigenous leadership in decisions that affect learners, families, languages, cultures, and communities. Bill 40 represents an important step toward strengthening those relationships and advancing the commitments reflected in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and aligns with the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada related to education.

The Board of Education remains committed to co-govern with IEC-led decision-making to support student success in all communities, cultural learning, cultural safety, equity, and reconciliation in education. We recognize this work requires ongoing commitment, trust, and sustained long-term action.