Education Minister Jeffrey E. Lantz announced today that three Island teachers have accepted sabbatical leaves for the 2001-02 school year.
"Our government re-introduced sabbatical leaves last year and I am pleased to announce that three Island teachers have been granted leave for the next school year," said Minister Lantz. "Sabbatical leave provides teachers with the opportunity to further their professional development and to enhance the contribution they make to the public school system upon their return from leave."
The following individuals will be on leave during the 2001-02 school year: Kevin Stonefield, principal at Prince Street Elementary School; Margaret Cain, vice-principal at Alberton Elementary School; and Blaine Bernard, a Math and French Immersion teacher at Westisle Composite High School.
In order to receive sabbatical leave, teachers must have taught in schools within the school board by which the teacher is currently employed for at least three of the previous years. They must also obtain the recommendation and written approval of the school board for the leave time. The teachers must commit to teaching a minimum of three years in Prince Edward Island upon completion of their leave. Teachers on sabbatical leave receive 60 per cent of their salary.
"Our government places a high value on lifelong learning," said Minister Lantz. "We believe this investment in our teachers and the public education system provides individual teachers with opportunities for professional development and personal growth and it also enhances the calibre of teaching in our Island classrooms."