Minister Takes Action

Nova Scotia's education minister is using her power under the Education Act in a controversial school board decision involving a teacher and teacher's assistant.

Jane Purves served notice today, April 26, that the department is suspending the certificate of a teacher accused of encouraging students to hit another student with Down's syndrome. Under Section 20 of the Education Act regulations, the teacher has 30 days to respond before the action is invoked.

"I have the ultimate responsibility and authority to ensure the safety and educational welfare of all students," said Ms. Purves. "It is not acceptable for any teacher or adult to encourage or even condone physical retaliation in our schools."

On March 5, the Tri-County District School Board rejected a recommendation from its director of education to suspend the employment of the teacher and teacher assistant until the end of the school year. This decision prompted the minister to request a full written report from the board. Department staff received the report on April 24.

"This report did not alleviate my concerns," said the minister, "Nor did it indicate that the school board addressed the violations of the Education Act, the provincial and school code of conduct and the board's own policies."

While the minister does not have the same authority regarding teacher assistants, she has asked the board to review its decision. At a minimum, she directed the school board to ensure appropriate training is completed before the teacher assistant returns to the classroom.