News release

Province Receives Levin Report

Education (July 1999 - March 2013)

NOTE: A social media version of this release with hi-res, downloadable photos and audio clips, will be available later today, May 5, at gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2011-05-05-Levin-Report/ .


A report released today, May 5, by Ben Levin provides advice and recommendations to Nova Scotia on how to build an innovative, effective, and sustainable school system that will improve student achievements and outcomes.

"My priority has always been, and will continue to be, our students' education. That is why government committed to hiring Dr. Ben Levin," said Education Minister Ramona Jennex. "This is a good report, it mixes innovation with the kind of practical, strategic and sound advice that will help us to improve an already sound education system."

In his report, Mr. Levin identifies five key areas of focus for the Department of Education:

  • Reduce failure throughout the Nova Scotia education system by providing targeted funding to help students, including those with special needs, succeed
  • Improve daily teaching, learning, and assessment practices by identifying best practices and working with parents to find effective ways to help students
  • Allow more things to "count" as learning and earn school credentials, such as programs that develop knowledge and skills through independent learning
  • Build public support and engagement by establishing and reporting on a small number of goals
  • Make better use of facilities and resources by closing schools that are underutilized

Mr. Levin is a professor and Canada research chair on educational leadership at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, and a former deputy minister of education in Ontario and Manitoba. He has expertise in large-scale education reform and the role of government policy in education.

"Nova Scotia has a strong public education system that has served its people well," said Mr. Levin. "I hope the ideas in my report can contribute to its continued success in the face of a changing society and new challenges."

In keeping with the recommendations of Mr. Levin, government will begin a consultation to gather feedback on the report from all partners.

"Our children are our most valuable resource, it is critical that we continue to focus our energies to create the best education possible for our young people," said Ms. Jennex. "I encourage Nova Scotians to add their voice and ideas to this important consultation."

The report and the consultation survey are available at www.ednet.ns.ca. The survey will be open until June 15.