FREDERICTON (GNB) – A new Canada 150 initiative to support citizenship education will encourage class visits to Fredericton, where students can tour the legislature and, when possible, observe the house in session.
“This program gives our students a chance to get out of the classroom and learn first-hand how their government works,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Brian Kenny. “It is a terrific educational opportunity for New Brunswick’s learners to really engage with their curriculum and see democracy in action.”
The initiative will help pay the costs of class visits to Fredericton and tours of the legislature. The funding comes from Canada 150 programming and the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture. It will enable students from more than 50 schools to visit the legislature by March 2018.
Tours will be tailored to teachers’ needs in particular subject areas and are linked to curriculum outcomes for social studies courses in Grades 3, 7, 8, 9 and 12. However, citizenship education is embedded in provincial social studies curriculums and all teachers were encouraged to apply.
“This Canada 150 initiative is a great opportunity to bring students to New Brunswick’s capital city and tour this historic building,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames. “It is a chance for our children and youth to learn about our current system, but also about the long history of our province and government.”
The government’s 10-year education plans aim to improve educational outcomes and better prepare young people for the future. They set objectives in priority areas to create lifelong learners, support educational leaders and bring stability to the system. One objective in the plans is to foster leadership, active citizenship and an entrepreneurial mindset in order to develop socially responsible citizens who feel connected to their communities.
The public is encouraged to visit the Canada 150 NB website, Canada.ca/150 website, use the hashtag #NBProud, and follow @Canada150NB on social media and share why they are proud to be New Brunswickers. Individuals can also follow @Canada150 to learn more about the various activities happening in the province this year.
17-11-17
