NOVA SCOTIA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION
for LITERACY and LEARNING

History continued... page 3

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Executive | Presidents | Hackamatack | Professional Development |

Publications

     The Association publications deserve special recognition. There have been a number of newsletter editors who have worked to keep members informed. They have made real efforts to solicit articles of interest. Most have found this a major challenge but their efforts provide us with the opportunity to reflect on the history of the association. From 1986-1990 the association succeeded in putting out two publications that served as a forum for teachers to share their thinking as they worked to implement the 1986 Language Arts document from the Dept. of Ed. Turning Points was developed under the leadership of editor Joy Gray.
     Reflective contributions came from around the province. Teachers, university professors and people from the Dept. of Ed. were represented. This was followed by a glossy covered journal-style publication, The Annual. Articles were reflective of the professional literature of the time but with a particular emphasis on Nova Scotian practices. There was room for spirited yet informed debate which challenged teachers to reflect on their practice. A different sort of publication arrived at the turn of the century. Salt Breezes and Fireflies, a collection of writings by N.S. students was published. Editor, Ella Lloy, was able to put out a very polished book that could be read by all and treasured by the newly published authors.

Individuals are our strength...

     It is interesting to note the involvement of individuals from the Department of Education in NSRSA-NSTALL. Betty Orchard and Pat Barnes were major contributors. Pat was a founding member and an active participant at meetings. She was generous with her knowledge and happy to use her many contacts to help conference and workshop organizers. She attended an executive meeting shortly before her death on April 10th, 1992. These women were involved while working for the government. Some individuals now working in the Department made contributions during their teaching careers. Ann Blackwood was a contributor to a Turning Points issue on whole language in junior high. Martin MacDonald served on the executive. Colleen Doucette moderated a discussion with Donald Graves, Jane Hansen and Ian Fraser as panelists at one of the conferences.
     Very early in the history of this association people were asking if there was still a need for its existence given the ‘changed circumstances’. Circumstances have continued to change and such reflection is always healthy. It can be comforting to realize that others have grappled with the question and found reason to continue. Mentioning names creates a situation where many valuable contributors seem to be ignored. This association is the result of countless hours by many people. The presidents are listed here but many others can be researched at the Bruce Hunter Library at the NSTU Building in Halifax.