Dear Parents and Guardians,

As a former teacher who spent 30 years in the classroom, nothing is more important to me than putting our children and their learning first.

Nova Scotia is fortunate to have such dedicated teachers and support staff, involved parents and engaged students. Together, we can build on what works well and help all students succeed.

That’s why this government has worked hard to increase per-student funding, ensure teacher to student ratios remain low and protect funding for educating students with special needs.

At the same time we are facing a number of challenges. Our classrooms are changing, with significant enrolment declines already, and enrolments will continue to drop for the next decade.

We must respond together, and we are doing so. Sharing information like this Minister’s Report to Parents and Guardians is one example. The report shows that progress is being made, but we must increase our efforts to help improve outcomes.

We also need to consider new ideas. The province hired Dr. Ben Levin, who has submitted a very thoughtful and thorough report on how we can improve our schools and put greater emphasis on student achievement.

As we consider these recommendations, I want to hear from you, the parents whose children attend our schools and see the work of our dedicated teachers first hand.

I encourage you and anyone else you know who wants a voice in this important work to share your ideas. By working together, we can develop a plan that puts kids and learning first, now and for the long term.

Sincerely

Hon. Ramona Jennex
Minister of Education