MCK suspends authority of Combined Schools Committee, outlines next steps

08/27/2012

The Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke (MCK) announced today that it has revoked its delegation of powers to the Kahnawake Combined Schools Committee and has suspended its authority, effective immediately.

Chief & Council has signed a Mohawk Council Executive Directive (#30/2012-2013) to that effect at a duly convened meeting. It replaces and rescinds Mohawk Council Resolution #5/1894-1985.  All were in support except for Carl Horn, who objected.

The MCK has appointed Rheena Skye-Diabo, Franklin Williams and the principals of the three schools (Kateri, Karonhianónhnha and Survival) as an interim Board of Trustees (“Trustees”), while former Director of Education Mike Diabo has agreed to act in the capacity of Special Advisor. They will work closely to ensure that educational services to Kahnawa’kehró:non will continue to be provided.

The MCK has determined that a review of the constitution is a top priority. The Trustees will initiate a comprehensive consultation with parents, educators and concerned community members the future direction of governance of the Kahnawà:ke education system. The Trustees will oversee the financial management of the programs administered by the Kahnawake Education Center and ensure that existing and future program funding is maintained. Finally, the Trustees will proceed with the hiring of the Director of Education.

“We have a very competent team of professionals in place, which should give parents, students and faculty alike confidence that educational services to the community won’t be disrupted,” said Grand Chief Michael Ahríhron Delisle, Jr. “This is a very temporary solution and in no way should be misinterpreted as Council trying to ‘take over’ education.  Safeguards need to be put in place to ensure that parents’ wishes are respected and that disputes are able to be resolved internally.”

“This is a very serious decision that wasn’t taken lightly,” Chief Delisle continued.  “Upon extensive research by independent legal counsel and, after much deliberation, we felt that this decision is in the best interest of Kahnawà:ke education. Like many in the community, we had hoped that the issues revolving around the Combined Schools Committee would be resolved but this has not happened.”