BCTEA represents a cooperative commitment that formally recognizes the capacity of BC First Nations and First Nation schools to build and implement a relevant and research-based First Nations education system.

In June 2018, the BC Tripartite Education Agreement: Supporting First Nation Student Success was signed by FNESC, Canada, and British Columbia (BC), and witnessed by the First Nations Schools Association.

BCTEA provides a flexible funding model for First Nation schools based on the BC public education funding formula, with adaptations to reflect First Nation schools’ unique characteristics. The BCTEA funding model is updated annually to account for additional provincial investments as well as changes to the Nominal Roll, with funding protection to mitigate potential decreases in funding for First Nations.

BCTEA also provides funding for a collection of second and third level services and for unique, First Nations designed and delivered special education and First Nations language and culture programs.

Furthermore, through BCTEA, FNESC, Indigenous Services Canada, and the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care agree to collaborate to improve outcomes for First Nations students.

Key Resources

• See the annual BCTEA Funding Handbook and BCTEA Funding Estimator. The  Handbook explains Indigenous Services Canada’s BCTEA Funding Detail Budget Report Table that is sent to First Nations each year.
• Local Education Agreements are important tools for building relationships between First Nation communities and boards of education or independent school authorities to support improved First Nation student outcomes. See our LEA Resource Page
• Learn about student transportation relating to public schools, including joint transportation plans

“Making systemic shifts to support successful educational outcomes of all First Nation students, regardless of where they live or are enrolled in school in BC.”
– 2018 BCTEA Purpose