Premier's Award Celebrates Outstanding Adult Learner

An exceptional adult literacy student will be recognized for their accomplishments this summer with a Council of the Federation Literacy Award.

Premier Rodney MacDonald called for nominations for the Premier's Council of the Federation Literacy Award today, March 29. The winner will be honoured at the annual International Literacy Day ceremony on Sept. 7.

"Nova Scotians who improve their literacy skills contribute to the strength of our workforce and our economy," said Premier MacDonald. "As a province, we're taking many steps to build a skilled, educated workforce and I'm pleased that so many Nova Scotians are improving their education and boosting their job skills. This will improve their lives, the lives of their families and will contribute to the economic prosperity of our province."

Canada's premiers and territorial leaders created the Council of the Federation Literacy Award in July 2004 to increase awareness of achievements in literacy. It is given annually to a recipient in each province and territory who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in the field of literacy. In Nova Scotia, the award will be presented to an adult learner who has made outstanding progress in his or her learning.

Jason Dykens won the award last year. The married father of three was working a minimum-wage job when he upgraded his education to secure better employment. He received a General Educational Development (GED) diploma in May 2006 and is now a supervisor of four cleaning staff at Michelin.

Mr. Dykens said his position allows him to "help build people." He is also tutoring others to help them with their reading skills.

To nominate an exceptional adult literacy learner for the Council of the Federation Literacy Award, individuals must complete a nomination package. Nomination materials are available at adult literacy organizations throughout the province, including Literacy Nova Scotia, community-based literacy groups, Nova Scotia Community College, adult high schools and workplace education partners. To download a nomination form, or for more information about the award, see the website at www.ednet.ns.ca .

Nominations are due by May 4. The winner will be notified in August.

The Department of Education works with its partners to help adult Nova Scotians improve their literacy and math skills through the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning. To date, 2,000 Nova Scotians have received their high school diploma.