ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — There are still a few weeks left to provide input into the provincial government’s consultations informing the formation of a guiding document and phased-in implementation plan for junior kindergarten.
Feedback is welcomed from the public, parents, teachers, early childhood educators, child care licensees, family child care providers, and other stakeholders, according to a news release issued by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development on Monday, March 25.
“Children’s experiences in the early years have a substantial impact on their lifelong learning experiences,” Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Al Hawkins said.
“It is important that we examine options for the phase-in of a junior kindergarten program. These consultations and the development of a guiding document and phased-in implementation plan follow the successful implementation of full-day kindergarten province-wide and are initial, early steps in the establishment of a junior kindergarten program.”
Junior kindergarten would be available for four-year old children in the province during the year prior to kindergarten, the release notes.
A discussion guide for the consultation process is available at www.engagenl.ca/sites/default/files/jk_consult_guide.pdf.
Input can be provided through one of several methods, including online at engagenl.ca. Feedback can also be sent via email to [email protected] or faxed to 709-729-1400.
There’s also the option of sending submissions by regular mail to: Junior Kindergarten Feedback, Early Learning and Child Development Division, Education and Early Childhood Development, 3rd floor, West Block, Confederation Building, P.O. Box 8700, St. John’s, NL, A1B 4J6.
The deadline for submissions is April 18.
