Arts Educators Honoured During Education Week
NOTE: A list of award recipients and community events is available at www.ednet.ns.ca/educationweek2009.shtml .
Music, drama, visual arts and dance, the four pillars of the arts were front and centre today, April 20, as the province kicked off Education Week.
Celebrated annually since 1935, Education Week honours teachers and other education partners' commitment to their students and subjects.
"Nova Scotia's teachers work tirelessly," said Premier Rodney MacDonald. "They are responsible for inspiring the province's young minds and shaping Nova Scotia's future leaders."
This year, 23 teachers and five partners were presented with Education Week awards.
Activities will take place across the province this week to mark this year's theme, Bringing Arts to Life! Schools will host art shows, concerts, coffee houses and plays.
"Arts education teaches students to think creatively and critically, and to be innovative problem solvers," said Education Minister Judy Streatch. "These are the skills required to become well-rounded 21st-century citizens."
While arts education contributes to the wellness and success of Nova Scotia's students, it also improves cultural and the creative economy. A report released earlier this year by the Nova Scotia Cultural Action Network, says that despite the current economic upheaval, the province's cultural and creative sector continues to grow.
"Nova Scotia has a rich heritage steeped in arts and culture," said Premier MacDonald. "Arts educators go on to inspire great artists, actors, dancers and musicians. They're not just shaping minds, but are continuing to build a traditional and vital sector of the province’s economy."
Education Week is a co-operative effort of the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, the Nova Scotia Federation of Home and School Associations, la Fédération des parents acadiens de la Nouvelle-Écosse, the Association of Nova Scotia Educational Administrators and the Department of Education.