Children Not In School

As part of Saskatoon's efforts to remedy the issue of children not in school, two conferences were held intending to raise awareness of the issue. Following the September 2000 conference, an action planning phase was spearheaded by the Saskatoon Regional Intersectoral Committee (RIC). It was at this time that Saskatoon Community Foundation became actively involved in the issue. The Children Not in School Action Plan Committee was born.

It has been estimated that there are in excess of 1,000 children and youth not in school in Saskatoon. The consequences for children and families, in many causes, are life-long hardship, under-employment, financial dependence, and higher indices of illness and chronic poverty. Often there is a lack of a sense of belonging to the community, and alienation from mainstream society.

The Children Not In School Action Committee is committed to improving the situation. A 21-point action plan was adopted and work has begun in targeting and assisting children and youth who are not in school or at risk of leaving.