Halifax Regional School Board Appoints First Mi’kmaw Representative

[Ed's note: We will have LIVE coverage of this historic event at 6pm on the haligonia.ca frontpage.]

From HRSB:
The Halifax Regional School Board will make educational history today, June 23, by appointing Kirk Arsenault as its first Mi'kmaq representative.

Mr. Arsenault, a well-known business owner and advocate for the Mi'kmaw, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

"Nova Scotia's Mi'kmaw families and students play a key role in this province's educational success, and having Mi'kmaw representation on our school boards is very important to government," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "I want to congratulate Mr. Arsenault on his appointment, and I am confident he will effectively represent Mi'kmaq students in HRM during his time with the board."

Mr. Arsenault will be sworn on to the Halifax Regional School Board by Daniel Paul at the board meeting. Mr. Paul, who has been awarded the orders of Canada and Nova Scotia, is an accomplished author, justice of the peace and is well known in the Mi'kmaw community for his contributions to Nova Scotia.

"This role provides me with an opportunity to act as a voice for the Mi'kmaq community in HRM, especially our students and their families," said Mr. Arsenault. "I am looking forward to beginning my work with the board, and providing some further clarity and perspective around Mi'kmaw student issues."

Amendments made to the Education Act in 2009 provided for Mi'kmaq representation on all school boards. With Mr. Arsenault's appointment, all regional school boards have a Mi'kmaq representative.

"I want to applaud the minister on the appointment of Kirk Arsenault to the Halifax Regional School Board," said board Chair Irvine Carvery. "Not only will his appointment ensure Mi'kmaw students see themselves reflected in our system, but I believe his experience and knowledge on a wide range of matters will raise our level of debate and decision-making in all areas."

Mr. Arsenault will begin his work with the board immediately.

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