Cree adults can now begin studying nursing at home through a new program with the Cree School Board and Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay.
MISTISSINI, Quebec-The Cree School Board, in collaboration with the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay, has announced the launch of the Cree Springboard to Nursing program. This initiative will help Cree students get many of the prerequisites they need while studying from their home and community.
The goal of the two-semester program is to recruit more Cree nurses to reach the needs of those who speak the Cree langauge and to offset nursing shortages across Eeyou Istchee.
"Let's try to recruit our own people instead of looking elsewhere. Why don't we invest in our own people and start there," Nancy Shecapio-Blacksmith, the director of nursing at the Cree Health Board and a nurse for over 14 years, told CBC News reporters. "This one program is more tailored to our Cree clientele or Cree students. We wanted to make sure it reflects Cree culture, our career, and our way of life, and that's what is different about this program."
The program is open to any students who have obtained their secondary school diploma or simply lacks some of the STEM courses. After they complete the program, students can complete their education at John Abbott College in Montreal.
Those involved in the program are only required to speak English; however, they note that having students who can speak French or especially Cree offer are especially appreciated. Some nurses in the area have noted that many of the elderly patients only speak Cree, and can get better care when they have healthcare workers who understand their spoken needs.
Students will begin their semester in August, with most courses taking place online and students participating in a one-week course in Chisasibi, Que. While this year's class is a pilot program, the hope is that the program can continue in the future.
