NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR TEACHERS' ASSOCIATION
NLTA Responds to Release of Education Accord NL

The Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association welcomes the release of the final report of Education Accord NL and will take the time to thoroughly review and analyze its Calls to Transformation. The NLTA will continue working with government to ensure any implementation strengthens the K-12 public education system and does not add a burden to teachers.

"Teachers remain ready to help build a better system, but success depends on listening to the people in classrooms every day," said Dale Lambe, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Teachers' Association. "Our message remains clear - the working conditions of teachers are the learning conditions of students. The implementation of the Education Accord must reflect that reality."

Of particular note to the Association are the Calls to Transformation outlined for the K-12 system, including a focus on enhanced Professional Learning opportunities for members, curriculum changes and enhancements to assessment and evaluation.However, the Newfoundland and Labrador K-12 public education system does not need another plan that sits on a shelf. The Association is encouraged by the Accord's acknowledgment of public education as an ecosystem, and, if done right, with the proper supports and resources, this approach can help ensure smoother student transitions and strengthen the building blocks of our society.

The NLTA underscores that implementation must be grounded in classroom realities. That includes:

• Addressing class size and composition;
• Ensuring adequate staffing and specialized supports; and
• Meeting diverse student needs with timely, accessible services.

"Continued and sustained investment in public education is not optional, it's essential," said President Lambe. "Education is the cornerstone of healthy communities and economic stability. A well-resourced K-12 system is an investment in Newfoundland and Labrador's future.We will continue to advocate for initiatives that address long-standing issues and deliver measurable improvements for teaching and learning conditions."