Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to acknowledge someone who has made significant academic, social and cultural contributions to the Dogrib region. Mr. Jim Martin first came to the Dogrib region as a teacher in 1981. He was employed at the Mezi Community School in Wha Ti and became the principal of the school two years later. He played an integral part in developing the school and in developing a local reading series. In 1988, he moved to Rae-Edzo as the superintendent of Education. At this time, the groundwork for developing the Dogrib Divisional Board of Education began.
This regional board of education was developed of community members and included the words of respected elders Chief Jimmy Bruneau and Elizabeth Mackenzie in its mission statement. Its goal was to develop students who were "strong like two people". It was built on the hope that students develop strengths in their own Dogrib language and culture, as well as developing the knowledge and skills to live in modern society.
As one of the first members of this board, I had the opportunity to work with Jim and other members to promote and support bilingual education and community teacher education programs. Many teachers from the program have moved into vice-principal and principal positions.
Jim served as the director of education for several years. As the board developed, he consolidated board governance and policy.
He promoted school infrastructure and new schools were built in Gameti, Rae and Wekweti. Major renovations also occurred at Chief Jimmy Bruneau School. In 1996, Jim returned to work directly with students and staff at the Chief Jimmy Bruneau Regional High School. As the principal, he dedicated himself to ensuring that the school became a flagship school and a model of bicultural education for the North and for Canada. Local courses were developed to ensure that students would have the opportunities to learn their culture, heritage and language.
In 1998, Jimmy returned to his CEO position with the now fully operational Dogrib Community Services Board. This regional board offers program and service delivery in health, social services and education. With its establishment, specific strategies such as a Regional Addictions Strategy were developed.