Province unveils educational priorities for next decade

The Saskatchewan government Wednesday released its plan for education in the province for the next decade.

“After a year-long engagement process that involved contributions from thousands of Saskatchewan residents including students, parents, teachers, education stakeholders, Indigenous leaders and the business community, we’re very pleased to roll out the priorities they have identified for Saskatchewan classrooms over the next decade,” Education Minister Gordon Wyant said in a media release.

“The framework’s foundation is based on having every Saskatchewan student feel they are learning what they need for their future, that they belong, can be themselves, and that they are valued, safe and supported.”

Since May of 2018, the government has sought input from a number of organizations to set the framework. Those groups were: The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations; the Gabriel Dumont Institute; the League of Educational Administrators, Directors and Superintendents; Mtis Nation–Saskatchewan; the Ministry of Education; the Office of the Treaty Commissioner; the Saskatchewan Association of School Business Officials; the Saskatchewan School Boards Association; and, the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation.

They joined the government in determining the four priorities for the educational framework. Those comprise: An inclusive, safe and welcoming learning environment; ensuring students have the skills and knowledge for their future; forming connections and relationships; and, supporting mental health and well-being.

The government said “a provincial action plan” will be created to make sure the priorities are achieved in the province’s schools. As well, the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation’s “Education Re-Imagined: 12 Actions for Education” will be part of the action plan.

An education council will be formed to help develop the plan. The council will comprise the organizations that helped build the framework.

The Framework for a Provincial Education Plan 2020-2030 can be seen here.

More to come.