Expert on Policy and Regulation in Elementary and Secondary Education

The Education and Social Development Programs and Partnerships (ESDPP) Sector of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (DIAND) requires a consultant to advise on the development and content of a legislative framework. In December 2012 the Department published a Discussion Guide on a proposed First Nation Education Act and is consulting on an approach that will provide necessary services and standards for students and schools, while ensuring that First Nations are able to make the governance and administrative choices required to improve student outcomes and meet First Nation aspirations. . Economic Action Plan 2013 confirmed the Government’s commitment to consult with First Nations and to share draft legislation with First Nations for their input.

While this framework and input from First Nations and stakeholders provide valuable information on the structure and principles of First Nation education reform, there is a need for an advisor with extensive knowledge of education legislation and regulations, preferably in more than one province, and significant experience in selecting policy instruments and developing regulations or policy guidance for educational administration. Such knowledge and experience would likely be gained as a senior official of a Ministry of Education, school board or education authority, or a combination thereof. Aboriginal identity and experience in Aboriginal education, particularly in First Nation education on reserve, are assets.

ESDPP requires the services of a Subject Matter Expert on Policy and Regulation in Elementary and Secondary Education to advise and aid in the process of advancing the proposed legislative framework proposal, specifically assisting in the selection of policy instruments (regulations and/or policy guidance) that will give effect to the proposed elements of the legislation; recommending tools and supports for First Nation Education Authorities and First Nations operating schools that will ensure clear understanding of roles and responsibilities under the proposed Act; advising on the implications of the proposed Act for school operations; and advising on methods of inspection, reporting and compliance with the proposed Act.

The Expert will provide services upon contract award and March 31, 2014 to complete tasks necessary for Departmental officials to plan the drafting of regulations, policy instruments and guides that will bring the purposes of the proposed First Nation Education Act into effect.

The expert will deliver a report that includes a recommendation of appropriate policy instrument(s) to support the implementation of each part of the legislative proposal due on March 1, 2014.