The Cochrane RCMP has been working with members of the Stoney Nakoda First Nations to help prepare them to be licenced drivers.

With limited transportation options on the Nation, the local RCMP recognized a need to facilitate a driver's education program. They partnered with the Îyârhe Nakoda Youth Outreach and the Mȋnȋ Thnȋ Crisis Support, to update the current driver's handbook material. 

Constable Jennifer Brewer with the Cochrane RCMP was tasked with engaging community partners and she facilitated the program.

"There's people out here, they want to drive," says Brewer. "It's not always as easy for them because it is so isolated. So, this is a way that we can stand next to them and say - okay let's help you and stand beside you and work on getting these licences."

The course introduced students to the driver’s handbook and students had the opportunity to write practice tests and were given guidance on how to further prepare for their official written test.

"The test for your 'Class 7 learners' is based on that handbook," says Brewer. "This just gives them a chance for extra studying. If there's anything that they're confused on, it gives us a chance to talk about it and break it down so that when they go write their learners, they've had a chance to have the material presented to them in a different way than just reading it."

Brewer says that the classes were successful, and they are currently planning more sessions for the new year. 

"We don't have the dates nailed down just yet," says Brewer. "However, we are looking for the interest, so please give Gabriel or Danielle a call and let them know that you're interested so in the new year, when we have our dates lined up we can get them signed up as well."

These particular driver's education programs are for members of the Stoney Nakoda First Nations only.

To register for a 2021 class you can contact Gabriel Young at (403) 862-7789 or Danielle Mark at (403) 554-0703.