|
|||||
| Return to 2006 News Releases | |||||
|
|
News
Release |
||||
|
Opposition says NLTA is right to speak out on classroom issues December 22, 2006 Roland Butler, Opposition Critic for Education and MHA for the District of Port De Grave, says the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers Association (NLTA) is doing the right thing by speaking publicly about the need to improve learning conditions for students in this province. "Teachers have a professional responsibility to speak out and bring attention to issues that impact on students in this province," said Mr. Butler. "Rather than whining about this issue, the premier should start listening to what they have to say. The NLTA have highlighted some serious deficiencies in the school system and government should address them in a responsible manner." The Liberal MHA says instead of asking these questions in the House of Assembly, he was forced to put the questions forward in the mock question period held last Wednesday because of the hasty way in which government scrambled to closed the legislature. "I’ve asked the Minister of Education publicly when teachers can expect to receive the significant increase in resources needed to make the pathways model work. The NLTA has made the point that, while they support providing quality learning environments and experiences to children of varying abilities, there must be a recognition of the significant resources necessary to provide this individualized level of service. "The Premier is very sensitive to criticism and whenever someone makes a point that may reflect negatively on his government, he tries to bully them into silence. I think the people of this province are beginning to see the real Danny Williams in the last few months." Other concerns raised by the NLTA that Butler would like to see addressed by government are changes to the way in which teaching units are allocated in this province, the lack of adequate supports for new technology, the need for additional support services in rural schools and the lack of substitute days for teachers. "The NLTA has made some good points on these issues and the government should start listening. The union has brought forward solid evidence on these issues, and instead of intimidation tactics aimed at silencing the union, it is time government start acting for the betterment of our education system."
|
|||||
|
Media Contact: |
|||||
