The 2015-16 school year marks the start of many new and exciting changes in the classroom for students and teachers from Nova Scotia’s Action Plan for Education.
“Students and teachers will see first-hand that we are taking action to improve and modernize our education system,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Karen Casey.
“The first full year of the action plan benefits all students from Primary to Grade 12. The changes provide a solid foundation in math and literacy, more technology-based learning and new programs to support career education.”
Highlights for students and teachers in the new school year include:
— a streamlined and innovative curriculum with a stronger focus on teaching math and literacy for Primary to Grade 3 students
— new homework standards to support and enhance student learning at every grade level
— a new school code of conduct that will apply to all schools
— hands-on learning activities for students to develop their technology skills, including Brilliant Labs
— more math mentors working with teachers to support higher student achievement
— an observation survey of early literacy achievement for all Grade 1 students to identify and provide supports for students who need them
— workplace training to graduating students, such as WHMIS and labour relations
— a new career education framework for grades 4-12 students
— core French programs that use interactive and conversational teaching methods
— a new growth and development guide for families with four-year-olds to encourage early learning
The new curriculum development model is designed to ensure curriculum is continuously updated to reflect modern trends in education. The entire curriculum is being reviewed and grades 4-12 will be streamlined over the next few years.
“Everything we do is based on what is in the best interest of all students. And it means giving our teachers the time, support and structure they need to focus on student learning and student achievement,” said Ms. Casey.
The action plan was based on the feedback of more than 19,000 Nova Scotians, including teachers, students, school support staff, school boards, universities and the business community. The plan focuses on fundamental changes to renew, refocus and rebuild the education system for the first time in a generation.
The action plan is available at ednet.ns.ca .
Source: Release
