​Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) and Saskatoon Public Schools have signed a new partnership to formalize their work to bring Métis history and teachings to all students in the school division.

An event held Jan. 30 at Westmount Community School saw representatives from both organizations sign a Memorandum of Understanding. While the organizations have collaborated for more than a decade, the signing of the MOU renews and deepens the relationship.

"Students have benefitted from our long-standing relationship with CUMFI, which has allowed us to bring important lessons and educational experiences about Métis culture and history to all our schools. Reaffirming this partnership with CUMFI and advancing our collaboration will help the school division in the important work to realize reconciliation for all our students," said Ray Morrison, board chair for Saskatoon Public Schools.

The MOU sets out numerous intended outcomes, including: to provide education supporting self-determination, holistic well-being and continuance of Métis people, while fostering respect for all people as equal and contributing citizens; to support Métis students and all students in their identity development; to increase attendance and graduation rates; to enhance and design educational supports, programs and services for Métis students from prekindergarten to Grade 12; and to increase the knowledge of Métis history and the cultural competencies of all staff.

"The signing of this MOU with the public school board will ensure that Métis culture and history will continue to be taught in the public school system. We have always had a strong partnership that is based on student success. We want our children to have a strong sense of pride in their culture while having a meaningful learning experience where they will be able to learn, grow and connect in the spirit of reconciliation," said CUMFI President Shirley Isbister.