Page 29 - Building Bridges to Success for First Nation, Métis and Inuit Students – Developing Policies for Voluntary, Confidential Aboriginal Student Self-Identification: Successful Practices for Ontario School Boards

2. It is important that the board administration and elected trustees have an understanding of the initiative, and are supportive of it, before they begin the process. This will ensure consistent messaging in communica- tions to the public and will demonstrate the board’s overall commitment to the initiative.
3. There may be instances when individuals come forward claiming to speak for a group of Aboriginal people, but in fact do not, or only speak for a select group of individuals. It is important that boards ensure they have a broad range of representation through their consultations, and have a good understanding of the individuals, groups, or organizations they are working with.
4. Boards may find it challenging to manage the politics of Aboriginal communities and organizations. It is important that those working on this initiative be aware of the dynamics of the various political organizations involved. It was noted that the lead coordinator of the TDSB initiative was very successful in this respect.
• Successful Practices for School Boards
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