Naskapi Liaison - Mandate

The mandate of the Naskapi Liaison Services Team (NLST) involves several distinct areas of activity, all of which are related to ensuring that Naskapi beneficiaries receive quality educational services and support to reach their goals and potential.

In carrying out our mandate, the NLST works in close collaboration with the Naskapi Education Committee (NEC), which is comprised of elected members of the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, in northern Québec. With respect to preschool, elementary and secondary education, the team is involved in recruitment activities aimed at finding qualified candidates to fill positions as needed. The team also supports the induction, welcome and continuing support offered to the personnel of Jimmy Sandy Memorial School (JSMS). This latter aspect includes, for example, the annual land-based learning day, during which Elders and other members of the community gather with school personnel in order to share in activities that allow personnel to better understand Naskapi culture and traditions.

With respect to adult learners and post-secondary education the NLST works in close collaboration with academic advisers and counsellors in academic training to ensure that all Naskapi beneficiaries studying outside of the Schefferville region, and who are funded by the NEC, receive the support they need to be successful as students—whether at the adult education, vocational training or college and university levels.

With students in many parts of the province of Québec and at a number of schools in Ontario, the team keeps busy trying to ensure that students have access to help when they require it. Whether support involves funding or guidance related to academic and career choices, life situations…and many things in between, the NLST tries to respond to a variety of needs, in collaboration with the NEC, the school board and the various education institutions where students are pursuing their studies.