Premier Pat Binns has issued a call for nominations for the 2006 Council of the Federation Literacy Award, which will be presented this year to a literacy educator in Prince Edward Island.
“Literacy educators and tutors play a key role in the success of adult learners who return to school later in life, and they are vital partners in our challenge to increase literacy skill levels in our province,” said Premier Binns. “I am pleased that the award will be presented this year to a literacy educator or tutor who has demonstrated a commitment to helping adult learners achieve their learning goals.”
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award was created last year by Canada’s premiers to pay tribute to individuals and organizations involved in the field of literacy across the country. In 2005, the first Prince Edward Island recipient of the award was Charlottetown business person, Diane C. Smith who returned to school, increased her literacy skill level and established her own business.
Premier Binns said every year hundreds of adult Islanders take major steps to improve their literacy skills and they become excellent role models for others to follow. “Their achievements would not be possible without the guidance and encouragement of literacy educators and tutors. They not only teach but they guide, encourage, support and in many instances act as advocates for their learners,” he said. "I encourage Islanders to nominate a literacy instructor or tutor for the Council of Federation Literacy Award before May 12, 2006."
Premier Binns will present the award at a ceremony in Charlottetown in September 2006. The deadline for nominations is May 12, 2006.
For more information on how to nominate a person, visit www.gov.pe.ca/go/literacy or contact the Department of Education at 902 368 6286.