News release

Premier to Host Forum on Student Achievement

Education (July 1999 - March 2013)

More than 400 education partners will gather at Halifax's state-of-the-art Citadel High School to discuss priorities for the future of public education in Nova Scotia.

Participants in the Premier's Forum on Student Achievement, on Saturday, Nov. 3, will represent a wide range interested parties, from school advisory committee members to teachers, principals and business leaders from around the province.

"Over the past two years, we have made a significant investment in ensuring that public education in Nova Scotia rests on a solid foundation," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "It is now time for us to reflect on our priorities and expectations for the education system, so the bar of achievement is continually raised."

Nova Scotia is now midway through the implementation of its strategic plan for P-12 education, Learning for Life II: Brighter Futures Together. The plan, developed in consultation with education partners from across the province, was the outcome of an initial Partners Forum on Education held in 2005. Initiatives introduced included elementary class-size caps, more professional support services and an increased emphasis on assessments.

"I believe there needs to be more emphasis in our education system on student achievement and on closing the gaps to enable every student to succeed," said Premier MacDonald. "Because the success of our economy depends on global linkages, our students not only compete within Canada for opportunity, but also with students from around the world."

Guest speakers and panellists for the Premier's Forum on Student Achievement include Douglas Willms, University of New Brunswick professor and director of the Canadian Research Institute for Social Policy; and Angus McBeath, former superintendent of the Edmonton School Board.

"I am thrilled to be able to work with the premier on this exciting event," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "I am proud of how far we have come in P-12 education over the past few years, and look forward to collaborating with all our education partners on our vision for the future."

"The new Nova Scotia rests on our ability to adapt and thrive in a climate of increased competition and continuous change," said Premier MacDonald. "Ensuring our children have access to the best public education possible is at the centre of our strategies for creating winning conditions."