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Education
September 4, 2012

Minister Welcomes Students and Teachers Back to Class

With a new school year beginning this week, the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, is welcoming students and staff back to class with an ongoing commitment to provide a quality educational experience for children throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Budget 2012 allocated a record $867 million for early childhood learning and K-12 education,” said Minister Jackman. “Our education system is better resourced than ever before in our history, and I encourage students to take every advantage of the opportunities available to them. Put your best effort forward, participate in school activities, and treat your fellow classmates with consideration and respect.”

Minister Jackman noted that in the area of programming, the province is entering its fifth year of the Excellence in Math Strategy, with $15.3 million invested to date on revised curriculum, new resources, and professional development for teachers. In addition, the renewal of the elementary and intermediate English Language Arts curriculum continues with implementation at Grades 4 and 9. Other programming highlights include the introduction of new career development and technology education modules (with skilled trades content) at the intermediate level.

In addition, a total of $115 million has been allocated for school construction projects this year, with work conducted throughout the spring and summer months and continuing into the fall.

Minister Jackman noted that the Provincial Government continues to invest in teaching resources and supports, with more than 60 per cent of the entire education budget invested in teachers’ salaries, substitute teachers, student assistants, professional development, and various services for teachers.

“We are continually making strategic investments to improve our education system,” Minister Jackman said. “With a budget focusing on programming, infrastructure and teacher support, we have all the makings of a successful school year.”

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Media contact:
Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Education
709-729-0048, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca 

2012 09 04                                     2:10 p.m.

 
 
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