STUDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM NEW CURRICULUM RESOURCE

Students and teachers have a new instructional resource that will enrich the social science curriculum in Saskatchewan schools. Government and community organizations developed the materials for Saskatchewan educators to help them teach their students how local government works in Saskatchewan.

The material is for Grades 4 and 12 and is designed to enhance student knowledge, understanding, and appreciation for the structures and functions of local government. It will help educate young people about the role of local government and the responsibilities that elected officials have to their communities.

"Government influences many aspects of our lives. Understanding how our political system works is of great value for our kids, particularly for grade 12 students who will soon be voting. This will help them gain the knowledge they need to help shape their world and create positive change in our society," Learning Minister Judy Junor said.

The curriculum was started as a project of the Saskatchewan School Trustees Association (SSTA) Research and Development Centre.

"This project was special because of the collaboration of all the groups," SSTA President John Nikolejsin said. "But the main reason we pursued it was to raise understanding of the importance of local government."

The resource was developed by the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations, Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities, Saskatchewan Learning, Saskatchewan School Trustees Association, and Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association.

The books will be distributed to all Saskatchewan K-12 schools in early September and is also available on the SSTA website at www.ssta.sk.ca

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For More Information, Contact:

Armand Martin Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-6083

Ardith Stephanson SSTA Regina Phone: (306) 569-0750