Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation
58700A St. Elmo Rd, Hope BC V0X 1L2 ph. 604.869.2627 fax. 604.869.9903
email. secretary@shxwowhamel.ca
Post-Secondary
Student Support Program
Policies and Procedures Manual
April 1, 2012
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 1
Table of Contents
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 2
INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 4
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION ………………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 5
1.0
PHILOSOPHY, VISION, MISSION STATEMENT …………………………………………………………pg. 7
1.1
PHILOSOPHY ……………………………………………………………… ………………………………..pg. 7
1.2
VISION ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…pg. 7
1.3
MISSION STATEMENT …………………………………………… …………………………………….pg. 7
2.0
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION ……………………………………………… ………………………………………pg. 7
3.0
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE …………………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 7
4.0
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REPSONSIBILITIES . ……………………………………………………pg. 7
4.1 POST SECONDARY COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITY …………………………………….pg. 8
4.2 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY
4.3 ATTENDANCE
………………………………………………………………………..pg. 8
…………………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 8
4.4 PROBATION …………………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 8
4.5 LOSS OF EDUCATION ASSISTANCE AND REINSTATEMENT
5.0
…………………………pg. 9
BEHAVIOR PROCEDURE …………………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 9
5.1 EDUCATION DEPARTMENT STAFF BEHAVIOR ……………………………………………….pg. 9
5.2 STUDENTS BEHAVIOR …………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 9
6.0
STUDENT ELIGIBILITY …………………………………………………………………………………………….pg. 9
7.0
PROGRAM FUNDING ……………………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 9
7.1 University and College Entrance Program
………………………………………………..pg. 9
7.2 Post-Secondary Student Support Program
………………………………………………pg. 10
8.0
SELECTION PROCESS
9.0
STUDENT APPLICATION PROCESS
9.1 New Students
………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 10
……………………………………………………………………pg. 10
………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 10
9.2 Continuing Students
……………………………………………………………………………pg. 10
9.3 High School Graduates …………………………………………………………………………….pg. 11
9.4 Interrupted Studies Students ……………………………………………………………………..pg. 11
9.5 Wait-Listed Students (subject to available funding) …………………………………pg. 11
10.0
ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS
…………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 11
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 3
11.0
FUNDING ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….pg. 11
11.1
POST SECONDARY STUDENT SUPPORT PROGRAM (PSSSP) …..…………pg. 11
11.1.1
LIMITS of ASSISTANCE …………………………………………………………………….pg. 11
11.2
LEVELS of FUNDING ……………………………………………………………………....pg.12
11.2.1
Level 1 ……………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 12
11.2.2
Level 2 ……………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 13
11.2.3
Level 3 …………………………………………………………………………………………….pg. 13
11.3
UNIVERSITY and COLLEGE ENTRANCE PROGRAM (UCEP )……………….pg. 14
11.3.1
LIMITS of ASSISTANCE .....………………………………………………………………pg. 14
12.0
ELIGIBLE TUITION and STUDENT FEES ……………………………………………………………………pg. 14
13.0
BOOKS and SUPPLIES ………………………………………………………………………………………….pg. 15
14.0
TRAVEL COSTS for FULL TIME STUDENTS …………………………………………………..……….pg. 15
15.0
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUND ………………………………………………………………………….pg. 15
16.0
LIVING ALLOWANCES
16.1
FULL TIME STUDENTS ………….…………………………………………………………………………….. pg. 16
17.0
INCENTIVE ALLOWANCES
18.0
SHXW’OWHAMEL SOCIAL HOUSING ……………………………………………………………………..pg 17
19.0
APPEAL PROCEDURE
20.0
DISCLAIMER
…………………………………………………………………………………………pg. 16
..………………………………………………………………………………..pg. 16
…………………………………………………………………………………………pg 17
………………………………………………………………………...……………………………pg. 18
EDUCATION COORDINATOR JOB DESCRIPTION ……………………………………………………………….pg. 19
Introduction
The mandate of the Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation Education Department is to better aid students
for success while promoting positive educational experiences.
It is expected that those who are employed within the Education Department and those elected
as the respected family leaders will uphold the policies found in this manual to the best of their
abilities.
The following policy manual will be in effect as of April 1, 2012 and will apply to all
Shxw’ōwhámel funded students.
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 4
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION
AANDC
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, formally
known as INAC
Academic Probation
a period of time during which a student is under strict academic
achievement guidelines, due to an infraction of the Institute’s
code of conduct or which includes, but is not limited to, failing
grades and/or poor attendance
Academic Year
refers to two four-month semesters or as defined by the
attending post-secondary institute
Bachelor’s Degree
bachelor degree programs normally take four years of full-time
study to complete. Many offer options in particular disciplines as
well as a more specialized honors option. University colleges and
universities award these
Canadian Public Institution
a post-secondary institution receiving the majority of its funding
from federal and provincial governments
Certificate
certificate programs usually involve one year or less of study.
Colleges, university colleges and universities award these.
Contingency Funding
Financial supports provided to students for costs related to
emergency situations which include individual or family illness,
accident or bereavement.
Debts owed to the band
any applicant with debt owing to the band will have their living
allowance deducted until payment in full has been received
Dependent Spouse
a person who is married to the student or a person who has lived
with the student as husband and wife for a period of at least one
year prior to application for educational support. This person is
dependent upon the student and does not receive any other
financial support of earning from other sources.
Dependent(s)
a person(s) who rely on a student for support and are living fulltime with the student
Diploma
the diploma involves two years of study in a career, technical or
academic program. These are awarded at colleges, university
colleges, institutes and universities
Doctoral Degree (Ph.D)
doctoral programs involve course work and original research
which must be written as a thesis and successfully defended.
Admission to a doctoral usually requires completion of a Masters’
degree, or a Bachelor’s degree with special qualifications. These
are awarded at universities only.
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
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Full-Time Students
a student who takes 4 or more credit courses per semester
Master’s Degree
a master’s degree program normally takes two years of study and
may involve research or writing a thesis. Admission usually
requires completion of Bachelor’s degree. These are awarded at
universities only
Official Transcripts
official transcripts are permanent records of a student grades and
GPA from a post-secondary institution. A student is required to
request an official transcript from the institution and submit to
Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation Education Department (unopened)
after a term/semester has ended
Part-Time Students
a student who takes less than 3 or less credit courses per
semester
Post-Secondary Institution
a public post-secondary institution that offers accredited
certificate, diploma, or degree programs recognized by a province
or territory in Canada, including the United States of America and
other foreign schools
Private Institution
a private post-secondary institution that offers certificate,
diploma, or degree programs. Course offerings may or may not
have academic transfer credit with a public institution
Semester
the time covered for one semester is approximately four months
Si:yam
Respected family appointed leader, may change from time to time
Sponsorship
provision of financial support to a student to attend a postsecondary institution
Student Success
a student successfully passes all required courses
Tuition
refers to a fee charge by the post-secondary institute for
enrolment in a program of studies. Tuition is provided to eligible
full-time and part-time students each academic year for a
certificate, diploma and degree program
Wait-listed
a compiled list of Shxw’ōwhámel students who have submitted all
required documents for funding when no funding is available from
the Post-Secondary Student Support Program are placed on a
wait-list and are contacted accordingly when funding becomes
available
Withdrawal
means the formal process of withdrawing from a course or
program of studies by completing a withdrawal form required by
the post-secondary institute and the Shxw’ōwhámel Education
Department
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 6
1.0
PHILOSOPHY, VISION, MISSION STATEMENT
1.1
PHILOSOPHY
Shxw’ōwhámel’s philosophy is to encourage and promote healthy living by pursuing a
higher education.
1.2
VISION
To have self-reliant Shxw’ōwhámel members who are valuable contributing members
to their family, their community and their nation.
1.3
MISSION STATEMENT
Shxw’ōwhámel will continue to support each other on working toward a healthy,
educated, cultural and self-sufficient community.
2.0
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Each year, AANDC allocates funds on a national level for post-secondary funding.
These funds are then distributed to the regional level (provinces). Each region then
decides how to allocate the funds. BC Region has implemented a per capita formula,
and the population of each band determines the level of post-secondary funding.
The Post-Secondary Student Support Program is envisioned to create opportunities
for Shxw’ōwhámel members to pursue higher education. The programs’ mission is
established as follows:
“To help build healthy strong communities, though education opportunities”
AANDC has given Shxw’ōwhámel, on behalf of the members, the option to administer
their education budgets using either the existing AANDC policy, or to develop its own
post-secondary policy; Shxw’ōwhámel has chosen to develop its own policy.
3.0
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE
The objective of the Shxw’ōwhámel Post-Secondary Student Support Program is to
improve the employability of our membership by providing eligible students with
access to education and skill development opportunities at a post-secondary level.
The expectation is to lead to greater participation of our members in post-secondary
studies, higher membership graduation rates from post-secondary programs, and
higher employment rates from our people. It is expected that students funded from
Shxw’ōwhámel Education will have post-secondary educational outcomes
comparable to other Canadians.
4.0
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REPSONSIBILITIES
It is the responsibility of the Education Department to ensure fair and equitable
funding and to distribute the funding to eligible post-secondary students, when
funding is available, as per this policy manual. Also, the Education Department is to
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 7
administer the funding in accordance with the AANDC Post-Secondary National
Guidelines.
The Education Department will respect the need for absolute confidentiality and do
whatever means necessary to protect the students’ right to privacy.
The Education Portfolio Holder will ensure that the Education Department staff is
working for the community and education services are made available to the eligible
members.
Shxw’ōwhámel accepts the terms and conditions of the Post-Secondary Student
Support Program as stated in AANDC’s Education Policy.
4.1
POST SECONDARY COORDINATOR RESPONSIBILITY
The job description is posted at the end of this document which sets out all the roles,
responsibilities and duties. The Coordinator is only obligated to discuss student
information with the Education Portfolio Holder and Administrator .
4.2
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY
In order to be eligible for funding, students must be familiar with and adhere to the
Post-Secondary Policy Manual and develop and maintain a positive and respectful
working relationship with everyone in the Education Department
4.3
ATTENDANCE
Students must maintain a 90% attendance in all classes, lectures, laboratories and
seminars in each subject for which they are receiving funding.
Should a student miss more than 3 consecutive days, they are required to verify
his/her illness by submitting a Physician’s note to the Post-Secondary Coordinator
where it will be placed in the students file.
(I)
(II)
(III)
4.4
Students may be placed on probation by the band if he/she cannot provide a
legitimate reason for not attending classes
If a student’s attendance does not improve, he/she may lose their education
funding
Students who are dismissed (by the post-secondary institute they are NOT
attending) from the course/program due to lack of attendance will be
required to reimburse Shxw’ōwhámel Education Department all funding
received for his/her course/program
PROBATION
The Shxw’ōwhámel Education Department will place students on academic probation
if a student:
(I)
Is placed on Academic Probation by the Post-Secondary Institute
(II)
Fails any of his/her course
(III)
Does not maintain a 90% attendance record in all courses/programs
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 8
If academic probation occurs, the student must notify the Post-Secondary
Coordinator within five (5) working days. The student may have his/her funding
suspended pending severity of the conduct. Students on probation will be required to
sign a contract with the Post-Secondary Coordinator stipulating terms and conditions
for continued funding. Additionally, students will have to pay for their own tuition
costs if they have to repeat the course in order to graduate from the course/program.
4.5
LOSS OF EDUCATION ASSISTANCE AND REINSTATEMENT
Students placed on the academic probation list by the post-secondary institute for
two consecutive semesters, will lose their post-secondary assistance and will be
required to refund Shxw’ōwhámel Education all monies received for the semester
which resulted in the loss of education assistance. Once all monies are paid back the
student can reapply for education assistance.
5.0
BEHAVIOR PROCEDURE
The term behavior procedure refers to any and all individuals that come in contact
with any staff member of the Education Department
5.1
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT STAFF BEHAVIOR
Staff members will adhere to the Shxw’ōwhámel Personnel Policy and Procedures
Manual.
5.2
STUDENTS BEHAVIOR
Language and Actions
There will be no tolerance of any type of language (profanity), action or otherwise
behavior that can be interpreted as unreasonable or violent. This policy will be
adhered to at all times when the students are in contact with any members of the
Education Department staff, including casual meetings, formal occasions, written
communication, etc. and the students will dealt with accordingly.
6.0
STUDENT ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for post-secondary funding, students must meet the following criteria
and:
 Must be a registered member of Shxw’ōwhámel
 Must have completed grade 12 (official transcripts required)
 Must have completely met all requirements on the application
 Must be of at least 18 years of age
 Must be accepted into a post-secondary course of one year or equivalent of one
year
7.0
PROGRAM FUNDING
7.1
University and College Entrance Program
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 9
The objective of UCEP is to provide financial support to first nations who are enrolled
in Canadian Post-Secondary Institutes to enable them to attain an academic level
required for entrance to a degree and diploma credit programs. Students applying for
UCEP funding must not be eligible for nominal role funding. The program will provide
funding for tuition, books and supplies for up to two semesters. UCEP full-time
students are eligible for living allowance, part-time students are not eligible.
7.2
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
The objective of the PSSSP is to improve the employability of first nations by
providing eligible students with access to education and skill development
opportunities at a post-secondary level. PSSSP students are eligible for living
allowance. Students who require funding for courses to complete a diploma or
degree program beyond the maximum allowance time will not receive full
sponsorship.
8.0
SELECTION PROCESS
All Shxw’ōwhámel members have the right to a fair, equal and respectful selection
process. A budget forecast sheet will be prepared to ensure we remain with the
funding allocation from AANDC.
Funding is based on the following priority list:
First Priority
Second Priority
Third Priority
Fourth Priority
- Continuing Students (currently funded students) who have met
all requirements in this policy.
- High School Graduates
- Students who have had their post-secondary interrupted for
personal/medical reason
- Wait-listed students
9.0
STUDENT APPLICATION PROCESS
9.1
New Students
New students must apply annually by 4:00 pm on March 15th New students must
submit the following:
 A complete Student Support Program Application
 A letter of acceptance for the academic year
 Most recent official transcripts/report card
 A copy of their status card
9.2
Continuing Students
Are students who currently funded by Shxw’ōwhámel and who have met all the
requirements in this manual. Continuing students must:
 Submit official transcripts showing that they remain in good academic
standing with the institute (65% grade point average)
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 10
 Not have exceeded the maximum funding months for their program (i.e.
Maximum 8 months funding for certificate program; maximum 5 years or 40
months for a bachelor degree)
9.3
High School Graduates
Are Shxw’ōwhámel members who completed the requirements to receive a regular
Dog Wood Diploma from the Province of BC Ministry of Education.
9.4
Interrupted Studies Students
Are students who were previously funded by Shxw’ōwhámel Education but had to
withdraw from their studies for personal or medical reasons
9.5
Wait-Listed Students (subject to available funding)
Are students who have met all the requirements but funding is not available. A waitlist is made each year on June 1.
10.0
ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS
Eligible Post-Secondary Institutions are degree, diploma or certificate granting
institutions which are recognized by a province or territory and include educational
institutions affiliated with, or delivering post-secondary programs by arrangement
within an eligible post-secondary institute
11.0
FUNDING
Assistance will be provided within the limits of the available funding. It is important
to note that these policies deal with both federal and Shxw’ōwhámel funding
programs, including the Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP) and the
University and College Entrance Program (UCEP).
11.1
POST SECONDARY STUDENT SUPPORT PROGRAM (PSSSP)
Shxw’ōwhámel will have local post-secondary guidelines that are consistent with
AANDC’s national guidelines and tuition will not exceed the maximum amounts
payable.
11.1.1
LIMITS of ASSISTANCE
Assistance can be provided at 3 levels of post-secondary education:
o Level 1:
Community College and Diploma or Certificate Programs
o Level 2:
Undergraduate University Programs (i.e. Bachelor Degree)
o Level 3:
Advanced, Professional or Graduate Degree Programs (ie Master
or Doctoral Programs: Dentistry, Medicine, etc.)
A. Finance for Assistance for Tuition, Compulsory Student Fees and required books
will be provided to students enrolled in all 3 levels
B. Assistance for travel and living expenses will be provided to students to complete
one program at each level. Level 2 may include assistance for an additional
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 11
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
degree program at the bachelor level which has a prerequisite of an
undergraduate degree.
The duration of assistance in (B) will be in accordance with the official length of
the program as defined by the post-secondary institution in which the student is
enrolled, while the student is in good standing with the institute.
Students enrolled in level 1 and 2 may be assisted for up to 1 additional academic
year per level if such an extension is approved by the institution’s dean or head of
the department of that faculty. Students in level 3 may be assisted for up to 1
additional academic year for medical or personal reasons substantiated by
medical or other documentation. *This is why students are encouraged to be
enrolled in at least 4 credit courses.
Students may be assisted in level 1 study after dropping out of level 2 studies. If a
student resumes a level 2 course, the previous time spent on the level 2 course
will be counted for assistance purposes.
Students who have completed a level 2 course, with or without financial
assistance from Shxw’ōwhámel Education are ineligible for a level 1 assistance.
Students who have completed a level 3 course, with or without financial
assistance from Shxw’ōwhámel Education are ineligible for a level 1 and 2
assistance.
Student support will not exceed the amount set out in (C) and (D). Where
students change programs within one of the levels, the academic years used for
each course within each level will be counted for assistance purposes. Students
who become eligible for assistance and who have previously completed a portion
of post-secondary studies without assistance from this program will receive
assistance for the balance of their course.
11.2
LEVELS of FUNDING
11.2.1
Level 1
1. For all level 1 students, the maximum time limit for financial support towards a
certificate will be no less than 8 months
2. Trades and technology and training apprenticeship program: students registered
in these courses with an eligible post-secondary institute will be given special
consideration for funding. According to AANDC, the course must have a grade 12
prerequisite and continue for at least 6 months.
3. For all level 1 students, the maximum time limit for financial support towards a
diploma will be in accordance with the official length of program (as defined by
the institution offering the course)
4. For all level 1 students, financial support will not exceed 12 months
5. Students who received level 1 funding are not eligible for another level 1 course
in an unrelated program
6. Tuition support at level 1
7. Funding will be provided to a maximum of two four-month semesters per
academic year
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 12
8. Books and supplies support
9. Support for registration, professional certification and examination fees are
provided
10. Support for living expenses will be provided
11. Students who change courses within levels will have the academic years counted
towards the maximum number of student months (40), therefore, students must
provide documentation that they consulted an academic advisor in order to
graduate in a timely manner.
11.2.2
Level 2
1. For all level 2 students, the maximum time limit for financial support towards a
Bachelor’s Degree will be in accordance with the official length of the course (as
defined by the institution offering the course)
2. The maximum time limit for financial support will be (40) months with a one year
extension if the Department Dean provides a letter of support. If the delay was
for medical reasons, a doctor’s note may also be required.
3. Finding will be provided to a maximum of two semesters per academic year
4. Tuition support
5. Books and Supplies support
6. Support for registration, professional certification and examination fees are
provided
7. Support for living expenses will be provided
8. Students who change courses within the levels will have the academic years
counted towards the maximum student months allowed, therefore, students
must provide documentation that they consulted an academic advisor in order to
graduate in a timely manner; and
9. Under special circumstances, students may be funded for a spring or summer
session, one time during the undergraduate degree program.
11.2.3
Level 3
1. Students are allowed funding for only one professional degree or post graduate
program (masters or doctorate). Students may apply for Government Grants, for
doctorate courses. The post-secondary coordinator must advise perspective
students on their level 3 funding and most favorable options
2. Students who are enrolled in a master’s degree course are eligible to obtain a lap
top, or a computer up to $1,000 after completing one semester successfully
3. Students who have completed a Master’s Degree course, with support from the
Shxw’ōwhámel Education Department, are not eligible for level 1, 2 or 3 supports.
Students who have completed a Master’s Degree program are eligible for support
towards a Doctorate course.
4. Students who resume level 3 studies after dropping out will have the previous
support amounts received subtracted from total available month.
5. Students who change courses within the levels will have the academic years
counted towards the maximum number of student months
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 13
6. Students who become eligible for support and who have already completed a
portion of their post-secondary studies without support will have the academic
years counted towards the maximum time support available per level.
7. Tuition support at level 3
8. Books and Supplies support
9. Support for living expenses will be provided
11.3
UNIVERSITY and COLLEGE ENTRANCE PROGRAM
Students applying for assistance with UCEP are required to obtain, from the postsecondary institution offering the program, a statement which attests that the UCEP
program will provide the student with the necessary courses to attain the academic
level for university or college entrance and the students will be eligible to be
accepted as a student of a regular university or college credit program upon
successful completion of the UCEP course of studies.
11.3.1
LIMITS of ASSISTANCE
For all UCEP students, the maximum time limit for financial assistance support will be
one academic year (as defined by the institution offering the course) or in the case of
part time studies, the equivalent of one academic year. As the end of the first term,
financial support for the term will be subject to receipt of a statement from the
institution confirming the successful completion of the first term.
Note the following:
a) Students who are currently enrolled in a UCEP course that is longer than one year
may be funded to complete that course, in order to ensure that there is no
disruption in services. For any new students funded for UCEP, the maximum time
limit for financial support is one academic year. Students who become eligible for
support and who have previously completed a portion of post-secondary studies
without support from this program will receive support for the balance of their
course in accordance with the policies set out in this manual
b) Documentation must be submitted verifying that the student is working towards
a BC Adult Graduation Diploma or prerequisites for entrance into the student’s
program of choice before funding will be granted. Students must consult an
education advisor
c) High school students who are pregnant or are young mom’s and can provide
verification that they are registered in an adult dogwood diploma program are
eligible for post-secondary education assistance
d) Support for living expenses will be provided for the full month of September for
the remaining of the academic year student will be prorated as per students’
attendance from the prior month’s attendance reports.
12.0
ELIGIBLE TUITION and STUDENT FEES
NOTE: this is a maximum allowable payment per student. Every student is NOT
entitled to this amount. The maximum amount was established to ensure that the
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 14
most extreme circumstances could be funded as necessary. The actual amount of
funding available to a student will depend on the overall amount of funding available
in the program.
For a student in a UCEP, community college or CEGEP Diploma or certificate program,
or an undergraduate university program, the maximum amount payable per year
cannot exceed $35,000. On an extraordinary and justified basis, the maximum
amount payable per year for a student in an advanced or professional degree
program (e.g., dentistry, medicine, Masters or Doctoral programs) cannot exceed
$75,000.
Part-time students, as defined by the post-secondary institution being attended, may
receive assistance for tuition and compulsory fees, and the actual cost of books and
supplies which are listed as required by the post-secondary institution (i.e. they are
not eligible for living allowances or travel)
13.0
BOOKS and SUPPLIES
Post-secondary students may be funded according to the actual cost of books and
supplies up to a $500 per semester. In exceptional circumstances, this amount may
be increased providing the post-secondary institution writes a letter of support that
highlights the cost and supplies.
14.0
TRAVEL COSTS for FULL TIME STUDENTS
Only full-time students are entitled to apply for financial assistance for travel .
Note:
(I)
Shxw’ōwhámel Education may financially assist with one return trip to the
student’s permanent place of residence from the post-secondary institute per
semester
(II)
The allowable travel amount is calculated according to the distance from the
institute to their hometown (i.e. Vancouver to Hope). The choice of
transportation to be funded is at the discretion of the Shxw’ōwhámel
Education Department, usually it will be calculated at the most economical
means of travel
(III)
The student will be required to submit a complete and signed travel form
before the travel date. This form must be submitted by noon on the Monday
prior to travelling as a cheque will be ready on the following Friday
(IV)
Students must save receipts and submit the form after the travel and submit
it to the Shxw’ōwhámel Education Department Post-Secondary Coordinator
within seven working days. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the form
is complete and accurate.
15.0
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FUND
Students are eligible to access an emergency assistance fund provided by the
Shxw’ōwhámel Social Development Department. This fund provides financial
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 15
assistance for Shxw’ōwhámel members for emergencies such as: Tragedies,
Bereavement, Serious Illness, and Disaster, etc.
These are just examples. For more information on what circumstances are eligible,
please contact the Shxw’ōwhámel Social Development Department.
16.0
LIVING ALLOWANCES
Students and their dependents can receive funding to help them pay their living
expenses while they are attending a post-secondary institution. The Shxw’ōwhámel
Education Department tries to parallel the regional living allowances established by
the Canada Student Loan Program (CSLP).
The CSLP Monthly Living Allowances rates are updated annually. The Shxw’ōwhámel
Education Department will review and make recommendations prior to the beginning
of each fiscal year. Shxw’ōwhámel does not have to pay the maximum living
allowances established by the CSLP, however, those rates cannot be exceeded. The
rates are used are included in our policy (in order to provide transparency and
consistency) are as follows:
16.1
FULL TIME STUDENTS
Single (living with parents)
Single (living independently)
Single parent
1 dependent
2 dependents
3 dependents
Each additional dependent
Couple (dependent spouse)
1 dependent
2 dependents
3 dependents
Each additional dependent
Couple (employed spouse)
1 dependent
2 dependents
3 dependents
Each additional dependent
17.0
$425.°°
$900.°°
$1,300.°°
$1,480.°°
$1,650.°°
add $55.°°
$1,185.°°
$1,300.°°
$1,480.°°
$1,650.°°
add $55.°°
$900.°°
$1,075.°°
$1,280.°°
$1,485.°°
add $55.°°
INCENTIVE ALLOWANCES
Shxw’ōwhámel Education sets aside moneys each year from the Post-Secondary funding
for Incentive purposes. Students are encouraged to complete their course to the best of
their abilities to receive the maximum amount of incentive. The amount of incentive is
based on the student’s grade point average. Incentives will be awarded at the end of the
programs/courses.
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
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grade
C+
B
A
18.0
Grade
point
average
67-72%
73-85%
86-100%
Education
Department
Contribution
$100.00
$150.00
$250.00
Shxw’ōwhámel
Revenue
Contribution
$100.00
$150.00
$250.00
Total Amount
of Incentive
$ 200
$ 300
$ 500
SHXW’OWHAMEL SOCIAL HOUSING RENTAL
Students who are receiving funding from the Student Support Program and who are
residing in a Social Housing Unit on Shxw’ōwhámel Reserve IR #1, are required to sign a
Rental Agreement Form.
By signing the Agreement Form, you are agreeing to have your monthly rental payments
automatically deducted from your living allowance cheque.
19.0
APPEAL PROCEDURE
The Shxw’ōwhámel Education Department believes in being fair and equitable,
therefore, band members may appeal any decision made by the Education Department.
These processes must be followed in order to appeal the Education Department:
1. An appellant must first discuss matters with the Post-Secondary Coordinator. If the
appellant is not satisfied, he/she may wish to take the matter further
2. If the issue cannot be resolved with the Post-Secondary Coordinator, the issue then
goes to the Post Secondary’s direct supervisor, the Band Administrator
3. If appellant is not satisfied with the decision of the Band Administrator, the appellant
can take the matter further to the Education Manager (Portfolio Holder).
i. In matters regarding National Post-Secondary Education Guidelines,
the Education Manager will contact the Advisor of Education of
AANDC to get a written decision on the matter or
ii. In matters regarding the Shxw’ōwhámel Post-Secondary Student
Support Program Policy, the appellant must submit a written Letter of
Appeal to the Education Manager within seven working days of the
initial communication
4. The Education Manager will then call a meeting of an Impartial Shxw’ōwhámel Si:yam
Council to hear the appellants complaint, consisting of;
i. A designated, qualified chair chosen by the Education Manager (the
responsibilities of the chair will be distributed one week prior to the
meeting)
ii. Four Shxw’ōwhámel Si:yam Council (not of the appellants immediate
family)
iii. A Shxw’ōwhámel community Elder
iv. The appellant may invite one support person
5. Those accepting the invitation to sit in the meeting must be provided with a copy of
the Post-Secondary Policy Manual at least seven days prior to the hearing.
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 17
6. The Appeal Hearing must have a Chairperson who will ensure
the hearing is closed to the public
7. The Education manager may appear briefly beforehand to
submit a letter explaining the rational for the decision, what he/she has
done to support the appellant and any journal entries showing the dates
and times of conversations with the appellant
8. Appeals must be submitted prior to budget deadlines and must
be relevant to the current year; the Appeal committee is encouraged to
make a decision during the appellant’s hearing; and
9. The final decision of the Appeal Committee shall be in writing and is final and binding
on all parties; therefore a student may not appeal to AANDC
Please note the following;
a) The appeal process must commence within 30 days of the written appeal
b) The appellant’s support person is for support only – this individual is a non-voting
participant and must adhere to this manual
c) 90% of appeals rarely undertake this appeal process
d) Students may wish to contact BC Regional Representative from AANDC for more
information
Sara Cousins, IGA Advisor-Education
1138 Melville Street – Room 1039C
Vancouver BC V6E 4S3
604.775.8142 / cousins@inac-ainc.gc.ca
20.0
DISCLAIMER
The contents of this policy manual are subject to alteration or amendment without
prior notice. All funding decisions are contingent upon availability of funds.
Many circumstances, both within and beyond the control of the Shxw’ōwhámel
Education Department may cause change. These may include but are not limited to:
1. Changes to better serve the Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation
2. Changes in financial resources
3. Natural catastrophes or disasters
4. Changes in staffing
5. Changes introduced by AANDC/Service Canada/Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation
Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation
58700A St. Elmo Rd Hope BC V0X 1L2
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 18
ph. 604.869.2627 | fax. 604.869.9903
email. dana.andrews@shxwowhamel.ca
EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
Department: Education
Supervisor: Band Administrator
Position Title: Education Coordinator
Nature and Scope of Work:
Under the direction of the Band Administrator, the Education Coordinator will manage and
administer the K-12 and Post-Secondary Education allocation, so we remain in compliance with
AANDC’s Nation Guidelines. Responsibilities include ensuring all students educational and
employment needs are supported.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES








Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Shxw’ōwhámel First
Nation Policy and Procedure Manual
Maintains confidentiality on all matters relating to the affairs of the Education
Department and the Shxw’ōwhámel First Nation Administration
Will treat all band members fairly and equally and advocate for them as needed
Will provide guidance and counselling to students so they will enrol in a certificate,
diploma or degree course that best meets their interests, skills knowledge and abilities
Will process all new student application forms and inform them where they are at on
the wait list
Will keep accurate accounting records of all expenditures in the post-secondary
education budget
Will submit the post-secondary education and nominal roll forms to AANDC in a timely
manner
Will ensure that the Shxw’ōwhámel Education Policy is in accordance with the AANCD’s
National Education Guidelines and is updated as needed
EDUCATION/TRAINING/CERTIFICATION



Applicants with a minimum qualification of a diploma in any human service program,
with preference given to those with a bachelor degree and/or can demonstrate
applicable work experience.
Basic certificates in office administration and/or computer skills
Preference will also be given to candidates who are knowledgeable of the Sto:lo history,
language and culture
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
Page 19
EXPERIENCE


Minimum 3 years’ experience in the education field, with preference given to those
familiar with AANDC’s policies and procedures
Minimum 3 years’ experience working with Aboriginal People
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS








Excellent interpersonal skills
Demonstrated ability in providing written and verbal reports
Demonstrated ability in office or financial management
A working knowledge of administrative procedures in regards to education funding
Reliable transportation
Valid class 5 driver’s license
Willingness to complete and oath of confidentiality
Willingness to complete a criminal record check
Post-Secondary Student Support Program
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