Program Description: Skills for Action is a basic literacy program developed by the Saskatchewan Institute of Indian Technologies (SIIT).Learners begin at a grade 6 or 7 level and are prepared for either employment or for the basic education 10 program. This program is currently not running, but may be purchased by bands or tribal councils. A second literacy program titled Stepping into Reading, Writing and Arithmetic and Career Exploration was designed for individuals who have very low literacy levels. This program is also available for purchase.

Both the basic education 10 and 12 programs meet the provincial requirements for those grade levels. Grade 12 students must write departmental exams. The basic education 1 0 is enhanced so that students do not need to take bridging classes. Students must complete algebra 1 0, science, social studies, biology, chemistry and physics. Both English Language Arts 20 and General Math 20 are offered in the second semester.

Source of Funds: CanSask, Bands, Tribal Councils.

Unique Features of this Program: Basic Education 10 and 12 programs that meet the provincial standards. Programs offered by SIIT are enhanced with First Nations cultural material. Elders, healing centres and counselors are an important part of the programs. The programs at SIIT offer a strong support system to learners. SIIT programs focus on not enabling students t( make excuses for poor attendance. Students are expected to make the same level of commitment to SIIT programs as they would to a job.

Program Challenges: Babysitting, transportation, PT A, addictions, family problems.