Executive Council
Advanced Education and Skills
September 8, 2014
Strengthening Communities Through Lifelong Learning
Premier Announces Council of the Federation Literacy Award Recipient on International Literacy Day
The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced today that Linda Anne Richards of St. John’s is the provincial recipient of the 2014 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for her achievements in literacy. Ms. Richards is one of 14 recipients across Canada to receive the distinguished award. September 8 also marks International Literacy Day.
“I would like to congratulate Linda Anne Richards on receiving the 2014 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for Newfoundland and Labrador. The importance of literacy, education and lifelong learning cannot be overstated. This award acknowledges the importance of literacy in contributing to an individual’s participation as a full and active citizen in all areas of society.”
- The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
Ms. Richards recognized that improving her literacy skills was critical to reaching her goal of completing the Personal Care Attendant program and securing long-term employment. She enrolled in the Adult Basic Education Level I program at Stella’s Circle, which she finished in June 2014. Ms. Richards plans to continue on with Level II and III of the program. Her biography can be found in the attached backgrounder.
“I am honoured as a Newfoundlander and Labradorian to accept this award. I encourage everyone to never stop learning.”
- Linda Anne Richards
Literacy and adult learning is being highlighted today through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization International Literacy Day, with this year’s theme being Literacy and Sustainable Development. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes that focusing on increasing literacy and skills development is essential to help the province fill available jobs and sustain economic development for future generations.
“In today’s global community, education is vital for success. Our government is committed to accessibility, affordability, and efficiency so our students can develop strong literacy skills – helping them build successful lives and contribute to the success and development of our province and our communities.”
- The Honourable Kevin O’Brien, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills
For more information on the Council of the Federation Literacy Award, please visit: www.canadaspremiers.ca/en/initiatives-home.
QUICK FACTS
- The Honourable Tom Marshall, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, announced today that Linda Anne Richards of St. John’s is the provincial recipient of the 2014 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for her achievements in literacy.
- The Council of the Federation Literacy Award recognizes outstanding achievement, innovative practice and excellence in literacy.
- Literacy and adult learning is also being highlighted today through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization International Literacy Day, with this year’s theme being Literacy and Sustainable Development.
- In today’s global community, education is vital for success and the Provincial Government is committed to accessibility, affordability, and efficiency so students can develop strong literacy skills.
- For more information on the Council of the Federation Literacy Award, please visit: www.canadaspremiers.ca/en/initiatives-home
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Media contacts:
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Milly Brown Director of Communications Office of the Premier 709-729-3960 millybrown@gov.nl.ca |
Kevin Guest Press Secretary Office of the Premier 709-729-4304, 730-2320 kevinjguest@gov.nl.ca |
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John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Advanced Education and Skills 709-729-0753, 728-7762 jtompkins@gov.nl.ca |
Linda Anne Richards 709-748-3242 lindaannerichards@gmail.com |
BACKGROUNDER
Council of the Federation Literacy Award – Newfoundland and Labrador Recipient
Biography - Linda Anne Richards
Linda Anne Richards attended special education classes at school where she struggled with her reading and writing skills. In 1981, she left high school to care for her nephew before choosing a career in homecare. As a homecare worker, she was challenged by her lower literacy skills. In efforts to secure long-term employment, Ms. Richards set a new life goal of completing the Personal Care Attendant program. She recognized that improving her literacy skills was critical to reaching her goals and enrolled in Stella’s Circle Adult Basic Education Level I program. Ms. Richards finished Level I in June 2014 and plans to continue with Level II and III. Her instructor and employment counsellor both note her remarkable accomplishments and positive attitude in the classroom.
2014 09 08 1:20 p.m.