With a new school year beginning this week, the Provincial Government is welcoming students, teachers, administrators and staff back to school. Motorists are also being urged to obey the safety laws around school busing and pay particular attention in and around school zones.
More than 250 schools are open for the 2019-20 school year. Over the next five years, the Provincial Government will invest $108.4 million on new and expanded K-12 school facilities and an additional $72.5 million for repairs and maintenance of existing school facilities.
Budget 2019 allocated $13 million, an increase of $6 million from last year, to support the implementation of the Education Action Plan which includes $9 million in teaching services and $2 million in professional learning for teachers.
Amendments have been made to the Highway Traffic Act in recent years which increased penalties for illegally passing a school bus and speeding in a school zone. For example, fines for illegally passing a school bus can be as high as $1,200 while excessive speeding in a school zone can lead to vehicle impoundment for up to three days and fines up to $1,800.
Supporting education reflects commitments in The Way Forward to deliver better services and better outcomes for residents. The Way Forward outlines all actions the Provincial Government is taking to achieve a strong, diversified province with a high standard of living.
Quotes
“Teachers, administrators, school districts and the Department have been busy preparing for the new school year as we work to continue to provide a modern and effective education system throughout the province. Today is an exciting day for students, parents, teachers and staff. I encourage each student to strive for the best and I remind everyone to respect school zones and be mindful of children getting off and on school buses.”
Honourable Brian Warr
Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development
“Today, students begin a new school year. There will be increased traffic on our roadways. I remind pedestrians and motorists to use extreme caution, especially in school zones. Slow down, avoid distractions and pay attention to school bus signals as well as children getting on and off the bus.”
Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh
Minister of Service NL
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Learn more
Education Action Plan
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Media contacts
Tina Coffey
Education and Early Childhood Development
709-729-1906, 687-9903
tcoffey@gov.nl.ca
Krista Dalton
Service NL
709-729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca