News release

Minister Thanks Nova Scotians for Helping to Shape Future of Education

Education and Early Childhood Development

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Karen Casey announced today, June 18, more than 19,000 Nova Scotians answered the call for action on shaping the future of education in the province.

The Minister's Panel on Education was named by Ms. Casey on Feb. 19, to find out what Nova Scotians think is working and what needs improvement in the education system.

"I want to thank Nova Scotians for this incredible response and providing the Minister's Panel on Education with suggestions on how we can better prepare students to succeed," said Ms. Casey.

"I want to acknowledge the panel's work to date, and look forward to receiving a report in the fall to help develop a new direction for education that will provide students with the right skills and knowledge to ensure Nova Scotia has a bright future."

The panel received 18,787 survey submissions:

  • 5,207 from students
  • 6,414 from parents
  • 3,198 from teachers
  • 1,668 from community leaders
  • 1,000 from school and board administrators and staff
  • 1,300 from other/did not identify

The survey, with the help of social media, has had the highest level of public engagement in the province's education system in a generation.

"Nova Scotians from every corner of the province have submitted their thoughts, ideas and opinions about what the education system should look like today, and years to come," said Education Panel chair Myra Freeman.

"The panel is looking forward to a detailed analysis of the data as we work to prepare a report for the minister that reflects the views of what Nova Scotians have told us."

The majority of responses came from the online survey, but the panel also received 540 e-mails and letters, 47 phone calls, and 30 discussion guides from groups of three to 15.

In its analysis, the panel will identify themes and major areas of concerns that emerged from the survey and submit a final report to Ms. Casey in October.