Understanding the Indigenous School Attendance Gap: Perspectives from an Educational Program Supporting Inuit Youth

In Canada, First Nation, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) students experience higher rates of absenteeism and lower rates of school success compared to non-FNMI students. However, little research has explored this issue from the perspective of FNMI communities. This study aims to conceptualize attendance and absenteeism among a group of urban Inuit students in Ottawa who attend a culturally responsive alternative learning program. In partnership with the program’s organization, we will be investigating the students and their parents understanding of attendance through sharing circle focus groups. General themes will be generated based on the conversations and experiences participants share. These findings will contribute to a greater understanding of the experience of school attendance among urban Inuit youth and can help guide strategies to engage and improve Inuit youths’ experiences at school.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jessica Whitley;Maria Rogers

Student:

Partner:

Inuuqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children, Youth and Families

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Ottawa

Program: