The Northern Lights Public Schools Board is pleased to recognize Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Council with a 2024 Friends of Education Award.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support and advocacy Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Council has provided for students over the years,” said Board Chair Karen Packard. “Their dedication to enhancing educational and cultural opportunities for children in their community has made a profound impact, and we are honoured to recognize them with this award.”
Each year, the NLPS Board of Trustees recognizes individuals and organizations who have made significant and lasting contributions to education in the division. Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Council has long demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting students at Caslan School and other NLPS schools in the Lac La Biche area.
One of the most significant collaborations between Buffalo Lake and NLPS has been the ongoing advocacy for a new school to be built on the settlement. Despite being the only Métis settlement in Alberta without a school located within its borders, the Council has remained steadfast in its efforts—completing feasibility studies, identifying a site, meeting with all levels of government, and pursuing funding opportunities. In March, those efforts were rewarded when the project received provincial approval for pre-planning funding.
“The passion and persistence shown by the Buffalo Lake Council have been instrumental in moving this project forward,” said Packard. “They have been invaluable partners in helping us make the case for why a school on the settlement is needed, and we look forward to continuing this work together.”
In addition to their advocacy efforts to build a school on the settlement, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Council has also supported the operation of Crossroads Outreach School on the settlement. At Caslan School, council has covered the cost for snacks and breakfast programs, helped with playground fundraising, and supported cultural enrichment activities. Councillors often participate in activities at the school such as Remembrance Day, talent shows, and cultural events.
Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement Council is one of three recipients of a 2024 Friends of Education Award. Information about all current and past recipients is available on the NLPS website.