Government, NLTA recognize World Teachers� Day

Premier Roger Grimes, Education Minister Judy Foote and Winston Carter, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers� Association joined forces today to applaud the province�s teachers by proclaiming October 5 World Teachers� Day.

Sponsored by UNESCO and promoted nationally through the efforts of the Canadian Teachers� Federation, World Teachers� Day recognizes the important role teachers play and highlights their achievements and contributions both inside and outside the classroom.

"Our teachers are an exceptional group of professionals whose dedication and commitment have a profound effect on our students," said Premier Grimes. "I offer my sincere thanks to all educators across Newfoundland and Labrador. They go to extraordinary efforts every day to inspire, encourage and guide our students to be the best they can. They have chosen a challenging career, yet through their energy, drive and enthusiasm, they are teaching our children to become the leaders of tomorrow."

This year�s theme, Teachers create dialogue every day, points to the multifaceted nature of the teaching profession. Educators not only foster learning through dialogue, but by creating dialogue every day, teachers help students discover the connection between dialogue and understanding, tolerance and equality.

"We have one of the most highly qualified teaching forces in the country," said Minister Foote. "They are the cornerstone of our education system, and I am proud to have such a high calibre of professionals educating our youth. The success our students achieve is due in no small part to the dedication and commitment of our teachers."

"World Teachers' Day is dedicated to those who devote their lives to their belief that learning gives rise to liberty, that education is the life-blood of democracy," said Mr. Carter. "The vision of a future where people will live together in harmony, tolerance and mutual respect is not something to dream about, but something to work and struggle for. Teachers are in the forefront of this battle."

World Teachers� Day was established in 1994. Sixty countries worldwide participate in World Teachers� Day and seek to raise awareness of the teaching profession and teachers� contributions to society.

Media contact:

Carl Cooper, Office of the Premier, (709) 729-3960
Carmel Turpin, Department of Education, (709) 729-0048

2002 10 04                                        2:35 p.m.