The Canadian federal government invested $7.3 million in the new school at Esk'etemc to meet First Nation educational needs, and to encourage pride and cultural identity.
The Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services congratulated Chief Charlene Belleau and Esk'etmc First Nation upon opening the new Sxoxomie School, which will welcome students from preschool to seventh grade.
"It gives me great pleasure to share my congratulations and best wishes to Chief Charlene Belleau, and the entire Esk'etemc community on the opening of their new school," said Philpott. "This milestone reflects our shared commitment to safe and healthy learning environments as part of a brighter future for First Nation students."
The federal government invested $7.3 million in the school construction. The BC First Nations Health Authority gave $435,000 for the preschool space construction. The investment is part of the government's partnership with First Nation communities to not only meet the educational needs of First Nation students, but also encourage pride and cultural identity.
The school includes three classrooms, a gymnasium, kitchen and pow wow circle.
Esk'etemc is located 52 kilometres southwest of Williams Lake in the central interior of British Columbia. The community has a registered population of 994 people. Esk'etemc is a Secwepemctsin speaking group. Esk'etemc has 19 reserves situated on the Fraser River southwest of Williams Lake, with an approximate total area of 3,800 hectares.
