Debates of May 28, 2004 (day 15)

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As well, I have a question to the Minister of ECE and it is with regard to my earlier statement. On May 10th I was privileged to address over 70 students and a number of staff at Weledeh Catholic School. I wanted to ask the Minister today if his department is willing to produce an enhanced northern history curriculum component into the teaching modules so that the students may get a better awareness of each other’s regions, communities and lifestyles? Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Return To Question 166-15(3): Enhancement Of The Northern Studies Curriculum

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, in fact through our participation in the Western Canadian Protocol we have enhanced the curriculum across all western provinces in both territories to include more history of the North, and in the social studies curriculum you will find that in particular starting even as early as Grade 4 that there is a fair emphasis on northern history. In addition to that, Mr. Speaker, through the teacher education program at Aurora College there is again a significant emphasis on northern history so that teachers who come through the northern system are even more aware of the history of the Northwest Territories. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Supplementary, Mr. Allen.

Supplementary To Question 166-15(3): Enhancement Of The Northern Studies Curriculum

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am glad to hear that, because I think the teachers of those who teach northern culture would be very pleased that the Minister had responded positively. I just wanted to ensure that he continued to work with his curriculum consultants, that teachers may broaden their teaching modules so that it may be extended right from K to 12. It enhances the post-secondary component of our education system. If I could get that commitment from the Minister, would he make that in the House today? Thank you.

Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, Mr. Dent.

Further Return To Question 166-15(3): Enhancement Of The Northern Studies Curriculum

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, we are certainly prepared to continue with our commitment to make sure that northern teachers are better prepared to teach about northern culture and history, and we will continue to work with our partners in the Western Canadian Protocol to strengthen significantly, where possible, the curriculum, or, where appropriate, the curriculum to deal with northern history. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.