Education Week 2014
Oct. 19 to 25 is Education Week in Saskatchewan, and this year’s theme is, once again, Supporting and Celebrating Success, which provides the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening in the education sector. Throughout the week, the Ministry of Education will be working with school divisions to recognize students and teachers who are achieving remarkable accomplishments in the classroom and their communities.
There are many Education Week activities and events happening throughout Saskatchewan schools. The ministry will also be participating in the Education Week Kickoff at Prairie South Learning Centre in Moose Jaw on Oct. 20; School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on Oct. 20 and the Grand Opening of Emerald Ridge Elementary School in White City on Oct 21.
The approval of the Education Sector Strategic Plan by all 28 school boards in April of this year was a historic event and has set a unified direction for the education system. This is essential to reaching the Plan for Growth target of a graduation rate of 85 per cent in Saskatchewan by 2020. The sector plan was informed by the feedback of more than 1,000 students, teachers, parents and caregivers, and education stakeholders, which indicated that the system must put the student first and take a holistic approach to meeting their needs.
There are great things happening in education in Saskatchewan. Bedford Road Collegiate in Saskatoon created an Academic Adoption program that provides individualized support to students who are struggling with any courses. In just three years, Bedford Road has seen greater engagement and student success from the many First Nations, Inuit and Métis students who have taken part in the program.
Mother Theresa Middle School in Regina’s North Central area provides innovative program delivery and extensive support for its students through high school, post-secondary and employment. The teachers at this school work closely with parents and caregivers, businesses and other key partners in the community to provide equitable opportunities for students. By identifying and meeting their students’ needs, integrating Aboriginal ways of knowing and learning, and involving families and the community, Mother Theresa is creating an education experience that is changing students’ lives and improving outcomes.
Success stories from Saskatchewan schools, such as the two above, will be highlighted on the Student First blog (www.studentfirstsk.com) throughout the week. And, the public is invited to join in celebrating student success and in recognizing the dedication and commitment of education professionals across the province.