There exist very large gaps between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal student performance in most B.C. schools. However, Aboriginal students in some school districts perform remarkably well. What are these districts doing right? The authors draw lessons that may well apply across Canada.

Gaps in education levels between Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals are a great social policy challenge for Canada. On-reserve, a smart approach to closing them would be the creation of Aboriginal-run school districts, independent of individual band councils. Off-reserve, the provinces should build...