New initiatives aimed at reducing teacher workload

Joan Burke, Minister of Education, said today it is government�s intent to create an environment of support within the education system and to ease the burden on teachers� workload with the allocation of $5.6 million in Budget 2006 for three specific initiatives designed to have a positive impact on the teachers� workday experience.

"We have listened to our teachers and we are sensitive to their needs," said Minister Burke. "We will work with our education partners to identify challenges and obstacles facing classroom teachers and find ways to overcome them. First, I am pleased to announce that this fall, 151 teaching positions that would have otherwise been removed from the education system due to declining enrolment, will be retained with $5.2 million to be allocated in Budget 2006."

"Secondly, $250,000 will be provided to review the Teacher Allocation Model. The realities of the classroom are different today than they were six years ago when the current model was implemented. Continuing declining enrolment, along with a dramatic shift from rural to urban and suburban areas, makes it necessary to review the model to ensure it will continue to meet the needs of students and teachers in both rural and urban areas of the province."

The minister also announced that $150,000 will be provided in Budget 2006 to fund an independent assessment of the process associated with the Pathways Model of supports for students. Government has heard from educators and administrators that the process is burdensome, and adds to the considerable workload of today�s teachers.

"We will undertake an independent review to determine how the model can be improved so it is more effective. We will continue to provide a high level of service to students, while ensuring the process is efficient and does not create undue stress for our teachers."

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador strongly believes that education is fundamental to Newfoundland and Labrador�s future success as a province. Students must be prepared to compete and lead in a global society and teachers are the cornerstone of an education system that embraces an innovative culture and economy.

"I want to assure the teachers and administrators of this province that we will continue to meet with interest groups, listen to teachers, and explore ways to make every classroom a positive and productive learning environment, where teachers are supported, and every student is given the chance to succeed," said Minister Burke.

Media contact: Jacquelyn Howard, Communications, (709) 729-0048, 689-2624

2006 03 21                                              9:10 a.m.