Minister Applauds Student Successes This Year

As another school year draws to a close, the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, took the opportunity today to congratulate students and teachers on their successes this year and to wish them a safe and enjoyable summer break.

“Once again this year we have seen our students excel on the provincial, national and international stage in a wide range of academic, cultural and sport-related pursuits,” said Minister Jackman. “I congratulate our students, particularly those who are graduating from high school this year, and the thousands of dedicated teachers who have worked hard to inspire them, challenge them, and help them to meet their individual goals.”

Minister Jackman also took the opportunity to thank elected school board trustees, members of individual school councils, and other volunteers who have given freely of their time and talents for the benefit of students throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

“As we work towards changes to the English-language school board administrative structure for the 2013-14 school year, and plan for the transition in September, I thank all our volunteers – at the board level and the school level – for their commitment to our students and their well-being,” said Minister Jackman. “Your efforts are very much appreciated, and I sincerely hope your commitment to education will continue into the future.”

Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future includes $840.6 million for K-12 education in Newfoundland and Labrador, which represents a 42 per cent increase in expenditure since 2003.

Over the past 10 years, the Provincial Government has made unprecedented investments in education, including about $620 million to address aging school infrastructure; $50 million for the elimination of standard school fees; $20 million for the expansion of the free textbook to all K-12 students; $17.5 million for an Excellence in Math Strategy; $17.4 million for music, theatre and visual arts programming and equipment through the Cultural Connections Strategy; $16.4 million for interactive whiteboards and computers; $12.8 million for the Futures in Skilled Trades program, and more.

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

2013 06 20             11:05 a.m.