May 6, 2019

Parents, teachers concerned about cuts to Early Literacy Support Program

The NSTU is calling on the government to release a full list of schools across the province where Early Literacy Support teaching positions have been cut.

“Since last week our union has received numerous messages from parents and teachers worried about cuts to ELS at their school,” says NSTU President Paul Wozney. “Unfortunately, given the lack of transparency under the new system, this information is spreading largely by word-of- mouth which is creating confusion and anxiety within school communities. It’s critical Minister Churchill provides clarity about the schools affected as soon as possible.”

Wozney adds, “The combination of ELS with Reading Recovery, in recent years, has helped a lot of children improve their reading skills. To compromise this formula without consultation or explanation makes little sense. Teachers and parents with a front-line view of our school system are legitimately concerned a reduction in ELS will result in fewer students receiving the support they need.”

ELS is program for students Grades Primary to 3 who have been identified as requiring additional support in literacy.