About Us

Treaty Education Alliance is the cutting-edge organization that intricately weaves Whole-Child Wellness and Trauma-Informed Education into its core mission. Recognizing the profound impact of historical trauma on Indigenous communities, the Alliance is steadfast in its commitment to healing and holistic education within the scope of Inherent and Treaty Rights to Education. Through community engagements with member Nations and their schools, the Alliance designs and implements initiatives that prioritizes the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of students. Their approach integrates Indigenous healing practices, culturally relevant teachings, and trauma-informed strategies into educational frameworks. By nurturing a safe and supportive environment, the Alliance empowers students to thrive academically while also addressing the multifaceted needs arising from historical injustices. In doing so, they foster not only academic success but also emotional resilience and a profound sense of cultural identity and belonging among Indigenous youth.

Why Community Engagement?

“Let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children”. – Chief Sitting Bull

Indigenous Nations and  Peoples have been educating themselves, their communities and their nations since time immemorial. They have an education system that is rich and beautiful. Education begins at birth and continues through one’s entire life. Individuals are educated by their families, clan relatives and community members; and thus, they are taught according to their role as a contributor to the society. Each person is seen as a gift with talents and abilities that contributes to their nation. Treaty Education Alliance includes community engagement as a critical component to give Elders, Leaders, parents, educators, youth and children the opportunity to contribute. Community Engagement returns the voice of the people, to make decisions for, about themselves and their children and it is the tie that binds together the structure of the Treaty Education Alliance.

Our History

TEA originated from a collaboration of Tribal Councils (YTC, FHQTC, TATC), Independent First Nations, and Chiefs whose aim it was to design and implement a common strategy with a common goal of First Nations student success through student retention, literacy, numeracy, and community engagement. Building on the foundation created by the Treaty 4 Indicators Project, a proposal was submitted to the INAC FNSSP in 2009. This application was successful.