GED HIGHEST ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT FOR 2008 ANNOUNCED

Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris was in Saskatoon today to present Terry Lamers with the 2008 General Educational Development (GED) National Award for Outstanding Achievement for the province of Saskatchewan. Norris presented the award with Dr. Robert G. McCulloch, president and CEO of SIAST.

"The GED Grade 12 Diploma is a stepping stone to further training and employment and I congratulate Mr. Lamers on his tremendous accomplishment," Norris said. "This program is an example of how Saskatchewan is a province full of opportunities for students and workers."

The GED award is presented annually to the individual receiving the highest total score of nearly 1,400 people writing the GED tests in the province during the year. Lamers tied with Cheryl McGrath from Weyburn for the highest score in the province with a score of 3,640 out of a maximum of 4,000 points. Norris presented the other recipient with her award last month in Weyburn. In 2008, 794 people received their GED Grade 12 Equivalency Diploma.

"I commend Terry and the hundreds of others who wrote the GED test last year," Dr. McCulloch. "Grade 12 or its equivalent is a necessary springboard from which to pursue a post-secondary education and ultimately a rewarding career."

GED provides adults with the opportunity to earn a high school completion credential, the GED Grade 12 Equivalency Diploma. Candidates must complete a set of five tests covering math, science, reading, writing and social studies. The five GED tests, which last more than seven hours over two days, also measure communication, information processing, problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Since 1971, more than 57,000 Saskatchewan adults have earned their GED Grade 12 Equivalency Diploma.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Marieka Barrie
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3170
Email: marieka.barrie@gov.sk.ca