$1.5 million for Language Arts, Math, Religious Education

"I am pleased to announce the allocation of an additional $1.5 million for learning resources. This will result in enhancements to the curriculum in Language Arts, Mathematics and Religious Education," said Education Minister Judy Foote today.

$1.5 million has been added to the existing annual learning resources funding of $4.5 million.

The Ministerial Panel on the Delivery of Education in the Classroom will speak to the issue of implementing curriculum in our schools. Since 1995, this province has partnered with the three other Atlantic provinces to develop common school courses in language, mathematics and science.

"The Department of Education recognizes the pace of curriculum implementation must be improved," added Minister Foote. "The development of new curriculum provides meaningful enhancements to school programs and leads to improved student achievement. This investment reiterates government�s commitment to providing the highest quality education to the students of our province that it is in our means to provide."

Language arts and mathematics are fundamental skills every individual should possess. The enhancement of curriculum in these areas in the province�s schools is an important component of government�s Jobs and Growth agenda. The possession of these skills plays a major role in the career and business opportunities of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians -- important factors in the province�s economic recovery.

Media contact: Andrea Maunder, Communications, (709) 729-0048.

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