March 26, 1999
(Education)

The following statement was issued today by Judy Foote, Minister of Education. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

A new and exciting program will be piloted in secondary schools throughout the province during the 1999-2000 school year.

The Regional Economic Development and Schools project will build links between human resource development and regional economic development. Its primary focus will be on the development of learning modules or local courses that address or reflect regional economic challenges and opportunities.

This innovative program will help make students more aware of local resources, potential development opportunities and possible career options that are available in their communities. The program will help students make those important career choices that will impact their future and, in so doing, help provide them with the educational resources to be leaders for this province in the global economy.

The Department of Education, through its Program Development Division, will work as a partner in ensuring that these learning modules support and enrich existing curriculum outcomes. Modules will be developed for growth sectors of the economy including information technology, aquaculture, agrifoods and biotechnology.

The successful launch of a project of this type depends on many factors, including the commitment of the partners and stakeholders. Especially remarkable is the creativity and innovation of our teachers, who, working hands-on with children, recognize a need in their community, spark an idea for a project such as this, and seize the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of their students. Projects like this one would not be possible without that first spark of an idea C and it comes, in many, many cases, from our teachers.

The Department of Education is looking forward to partnering with the Newfoundland and Labrador School Boards' Association, ACOA, school districts, Regional Economic Development Boards and teachers in the development and delivery of this program.

1999 03 26                                 12:25 p.m.