FOR WEB

FOR WEB

Education is dividing Burns Lake residents

Editor:

Editor:

Re: Story called ‘Group not giving up new college’ published in the Lakes District News‘ Aug. 9 issue.

My first thought was, “Oh, no. Not again!” The political issue with NVIT and CNC – the same issue for a full year. I saved it all in a binder, the issue of how many students and how many staff in 2012-13, according to Scott Zayac.

The six nations surrounding Burns Lake were the biggest supporters of CNC. That’s why you were successful as regional principal. Corinne [George] was approached that she would make a good regional principal. She was not even told the plan for NVIT after she got in. It was exciting for the families to have the first Aboriginal lady regional principal. We did not have a chance to celebrate, as dirty political was pushed on her.

She does not deserve this. I stated before, as Wet’suwet’en bear clan, I’m a hereditary chief and responsible for my children and stand by them. In spite of all this, Corinne struggles but she does a good job at CNC, smiling and keep going.

The big question is what if NVIT does not work? Will you cancel all Aboriginal programs or renew programs like you did before you stepped aside? Did you inform your supporting bands of all cancellations? Wet’suwet’en First Nation tried twice to enrol their students but you said, “No programs.” This should answer the town council question about low attendance at CNC.

I sat in both the Lake Babine Nation (LBN) and CNC presenting to town council meetings. Not once did LBN education coordinator and Scott Zayac mention to anyone that all programs were not renewed. This is very dishonest, very disrespectful. How can the band trust this situation for their students and the bands? In workplace there’s honesty and respect.

Right now, there’s so much division in Burns Lake depriving your students of education.

Sincerely,

Rita George

Burns Lake Lakes District News