STAR Catholic Trustees Call for Restoration of Jordan’s Principle Funding

STAR Catholic School Division Trustees are calling for the urgent reinstatement of Jordan’s Principle funding in Alberta, citing serious concerns about the impact of its withdrawal on Indigenous students.

In formal letters sent to the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA), the Minister of Indigenous Relations, and the Minister of Education, STAR Catholic Trustees are urging coordinated advocacy efforts to ensure equitable access to services for First Nations children. The Trustees emphasized that the loss of funding has created a significant barrier to education and wellness supports that are otherwise unavailable to many Indigenous students.

“Jordan’s Principle has been a vital tool in ensuring First Nations children receive the services they need, without delays or jurisdictional disputes,” the Trustees wrote. “Its removal undermines our collective commitment to reconciliation and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.”

The funding, which had previously supported culturally appropriate learning resources, mental health services, and specialized interventions, has played a critical role in supporting Indigenous students' well-being and success across the division's schools.
The Division is calling on ASBA to elevate the issue in its advocacy work and is asking provincial ministers to work collaboratively with federal counterparts to ensure the full restoration of the grant.

“This is not just a funding issue—it’s a matter of equity and justice,” the Trustees stated. “We have a moral obligation to uphold the rights of every child, and that includes ensuring Indigenous students are not left behind.”

STAR Catholic Trustees hopes to see this issue addressed with urgency at both the provincial and national levels.