SASKATCHEWAN LITERACY COMMISSION ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS INTRODUCED

Minister responsible for Literacy Andrew Thomson, introduced members of the Saskatchewan Literacy Commission Advisory Board in the Saskatchewan Legislature today.

The Advisory Board will guide the Saskatchewan Literacy Commission as it develops a strong, co-ordinated literacy strategy for the people of Saskatchewan. The strategy will focus on six key literacy knowledge centres – Aboriginal, work-place based, family, adult, early learning and second languages.

"Members of the Advisory Board have a broad range of experience and have demonstrated both a personal and professional interest in literacy and the six identified literacy knowledge centers," Thomson said. "They are well-positioned to lead the Saskatchewan Literacy Commission as it develops literacy policy and supports for the people of our province."

The Advisory Board is chaired by Saskatchewan Literacy Commissioner Dr. Margaret Lipp. Board members, who have been appointed for a five-year term, are: Gladys Christiansen, Deirdre Crichton, Dr. Ann Curry, Chief Marie Ann Day Walker-Pelletier, Bula Ghosh, Keith Hanson, Holly Hetherington, Vicki Ignerowicz, Brian Opikokew, Fay Stupnikoff and Michael Zaplitny.

"Saskatchewan's approach to literacy is a first in Canada. It is an innovative and results-oriented approach that is community-delivered, but provincially co-ordinated. It is a Saskatchewan solution that works for Saskatchewan people," Thomson said.

Premier Lorne Calvert and Minister Thomson announced the Saskatchewan Literacy Commission and SaskSmart – Literacy for Life Initiative in September 2005.

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For More Information, Contact:

Linda Paidel Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-7791