Province Receives Levin Report

Published by the Department of Education

Thursday, May 5, 2011

A report released 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.

Quotes

My priority has always been, and will continue to be, our students' education. That is why government committed to hiring Dr. Ben Levin. 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. Education Minister Ramona Jennex

Nova Scotia has a strong public education system that has served its people well. I hope the ideas in my report can contribute to its continued success in the face of a changing society and new challenges. Ben Levin, Canada research chair on educational leadership at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

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. I encourage Nova Scotians to add their voice and ideas to this important consultation. Education Minister Ramona Jennex

Quick Facts

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

Learn More

Media Contacts

Krista Higdon
Department of Education
902-424-3150
E-mail:

Images

Students walk down a hallway in a high school. Ben Levin's report 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.
Download high-res version
Students chat in a hall of a high school. Ben Levin's report identifies five key areas of focus for the Department of Education.
Download high-res version
Ben Levin discusses his report as Education Minister Ramona Jennex listens. Mr. Levin has expertise in large-scale education reform and the role of government policy in education.
Download high-res version
Education Minister Ramona Jennex listens as Ben Levin talks about his report. Ms. Jennex says the report mixes innovation with practical, strategic and sound advice.
Download high-res version

Videos

Hon. Ramona Jennex, Minister of Education starts the announcement then Dr. Ben Levin speaks.

Audio

Education Minister Ramona Jennex says the report is practical and strategic.
Ms. Jennex says education has many challenges but at the same time, many strengths.
Mr. Levin says public education is good in the province but institutions have to adjust to changing circumstances.
He encourages educators to look at ways to allow students to pursue passions.