Fourteen Island educators from across the province were back to the classroom last week as part of a professional development workshop sponsored by the Department of Education. The group, which was comprised of teachers from all levels, the Board offices and Department personnel, spent last Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the Leadership Early Assessment Program (LEAP). The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) approved program is internationally recognized as a model to develop leadership and assessment skills.
"We have identified the needs of school administrators as a priority within the Department's professional development plans for the 1996-97 school year given their crucial role in the system" said Education Minister Gordon MacInnis. "This course is just one of a group of workshops planned for this year that are designed to enhance educational leadership in the province."
Upon completion of the workshop, this group of educators will be NASSP certified. This means they will be qualified to teach the course to fellow Island teachers.
Mr. MacInnis said he was impressed with the initiative demonstrated by the group attending the three day, intensive workshop. "The workshops was held over the summer school break," noted the Minister of Education. "I feel these educators deserve a lot of credit for their obvious commitment to the teaching profession and to Island students."
Three educators from New Brunswick also joined the training session in Charlottetown.
For more information contact: Lloyd Mallard, Coordinator, Professional Development, 368-4283.