School District #27 (SD27) welcomes the one-year extension of the implementation period of the new draft curriculum for grades 10-12, says acting superintendent Mark Wintjes.
"Extending this timeline provides us with the opportunity to further solidify our understanding of the new curriculum and provides more opportunities for teachers to explore its implementation into their classrooms ensuring a seamless delivery."
Upon a recent request for comment, SD27 chair Tanya Guenther declined to do so herself, and forwarded the request to Wintjes, saying that Wintjes would be the best person to respond.
Many teachers started using the draft grades 10-12 curriculum this past fall, and are providing feedback on its success with students.
The redesigned grades10-12 curriculum will be implemented at the beginning of the 2018/19 school year, based on feedback provided by teachers and educators.
Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett says Education Minister Mike Bernier giving extra time for grades 10-12 teachers to implement the new curriculum and help refine it is "the right thing to do."
"I agree that it is best to take the time to work together and get it right."
In his announcement, Bernier notes teachers, principals and trustees had asked for more time to work hands-on with the redesigned curriculum.
"Curriculum in the high-school years is more complex; it’s tied to provincial exams and evaluated strictly. So, it's critical teachers have enough time to use the draft grades 10-12 curriculum and help shape it with their feedback."
See related story entitled CCTA supports curriculum delay on A1 of the Dec. 1 edition of the 100 Mile House Free Press.