Rainy River First Nations Education Department
The Rainy River First Nations Education Department proudly supports students from early learning through post-secondary education. Our mission is to empower every learner through inclusive, culturally rooted services that meet the needs of our youth and their families.
Education Director
Who We Support
We offer services for:
- Elementary students (JK–Grade 8 on community)
- Secondary students (Grades 9–12 and mature students on community)
- Post-secondary students (college, university, or skilled trades on and off community)
Whether students are just starting school or pursuing a degree, we are here to walk alongside them every step of the way.
Our Core Programs
Elementary Education (Ages 3–14)
We provide:
- Daily transportation to Donald Young School, Our Lady of the Way, and Fort Frances High School (Gr. 8)
- One-on-one and in-school support through Education Assistants (EAs)
Secondary Education (Grades 9–12, Ages 13–21)
Secondary students benefit from:
- Transportation to and from Fort Frances High school
- Support through our in-school staff
Access to the 3 A’s Reward Program (detailed below)
Post-Secondary Education
RRFN members enrolled in accredited post-secondary programs may receive annual funding. Applications can be found on the Rainy River First Nations Website. New and Returning students need to apply each academic year. Deadline for Application are the last Friday of May and the First Friday in October each year. Funding is based on eligibility and funds available.
Applications are reviewed each academic year and may include:
- Tuition and books
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel support
- Graduation-related costs
The 3 A’s Reward Program
Designed to encourage positive student habits, the 3 A’s Program recognizes and rewards students in Attendance, Academics, and Attitude. Qualifying students can earn monthly incentives, milestone bonuses, and prize draw entries.
Attendance
- Students with 85%+ attendance and no unexcused absences receive $50/month
- Missed classes must be documented and excused to remain eligible
Academics
- Students on the Honor Roll are awarded $200 twice per school year
- Students at UNFC or FFHS who complete 20 full lessons (1 credit) receive $50 per milestone. (Confirmation of credit completion from principal is required)
- Academic recognition is based on official report cards and school-submitted records
Attitude
- Rewards are based on:
- Punctuality (no more than 3 lates per month)
- Volunteering in the community or school (40 hours required to graduate, forms must be completed and handed in to Fort Frances High School)
- Respectful behavior and commitment to learning
- Following school and bus rules
Bonus Draws
Students who meet expectations in all 3 A’s are entered into biannual prize draws.
Note: Students who are suspended during the school year are not eligible for incentives.
Reporting Process
Students must submit their monthly attendance reports to the Education Director by the last Thursday of each month.
In-School & Family Support
Educational Assistants (EAs)
Our EAs work within Donald Young, Our Lady of the Way, and Fort Frances High School to support RRFN students. They assist with:
- Special education support
- Class participation and engagement
- Behavior plans and academic modifications
Community Education Resource Worker
The CERW supports students and families by:
- Providing tools for EAs
- Navigating IEPs, behavior plans, and autism supports
- Working with Education Director and school boards to secure additional services
Community Education Resource Worker
The CERW supports students and families by:
- Providing tools for EAs
- Navigating IEPs, behavior plans, and autism supports
- Working with Education Director and school boards to secure additional services
Experience Trips
Eligible students in Grades 9–12 may participate in educational trips during March Break or summer.
To qualify, students must meet at least 2 of the 3 A’s criteria and be a current RRFN member or on the nominal roll.
If attending Alternative school, you must pass 6 out of the 8 required in an academic year.
These trips are subject to funding availability.
Extracurricular Funding Guidelines
At Rainy River First Nations, we recognize the value of extracurricular activities in supporting student growth and community connection. While the Education Department offers some financial assistance, parents and guardians remain primarily responsible for costs related to school trips and activities.
General Policy
- Parents are responsible for school-related extracurricular expenses, including field trips, personal travel, and meals.
- Limited funding is available to assist with extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, music, and cultural programs, as outlined in RRFN Education Policy.
- Personal spending is not eligible for reimbursement.
Eligibility
- Must be a member of Rainy River First Nations and/or listed on the Indian Registry Nominal Roll
- Must be 0–18 years of age
- Must be enrolled in an approved educational institution
Annual Extracurricular Reimbursement
The Education Department may reimburse up to $1,000 per student per fiscal year (April 1 – March 31) for:
- Program registration fees
- Required equipment or uniforms
Not covered:
- Travel costs
- Food and meals
How to Apply
- Submit original receipts and proof of payment
- Include student’s name, age, membership status, and program details
- Submit to the Education Department within the current fiscal year
Reimbursements are subject to available funds and are not guaranteed.
RRFN Supplies Reimbursement Application Form
Eligibility: Must be a member of Rainy River First Nations and/or listed on the nominal roll.
Student must be enrolled in an approved educational institution. Reimbursement is based on available funding and covers notebooks, school supplies (pencils, paper, binders). Up to $100 per academic year.
Note: Clothing, electronics, and personal items are not eligible.
Tutoring Support Policy
Students having trouble in a course may be eligible to receive tutoring assistance. Tutoring is provided by students who have primarily completed the course with demonstrated proficiency.
Eligibility and Approval
- Tutoring must be approved by both the course teacher and the Education Director before it begins.
- The student seeking tutoring must show a need based on academic challenges in the course.
Funding and Limits
- Tutoring sessions may be funded at a rate of up to $20.00 per hour.
- A maximum of 10 hours per course is eligible for funding.
- Any tutoring costs exceeding these limits are the responsibility of the student or their family.
Student & Parent Advocacy
Parents may request academic or behavioral support through the Education Department.
By signing a consent form, the Education Director can:
- Communicate with your child’s school
- Attend meetings
- Advocate for educational success
Governance & Community Partnerships
Education Committee
Made up of:
- Five community representatives (on and off reserve)
- Education Director
- Executive Assistant
Responsibilities include:
- Reviewing policies and budgets
- Overseeing post-secondary funding decisions
Community Involvement
The Education Director sits on the following boards and committees:
- Northwestern District School Board – Education Committee
- Rainy River District School Board – FNMI Committee
- Donald Young School Council
- Seven Generations Education Partnership Program