REQUEST FOR LITERACY AWARD NOMINATIONS

Premier Brad Wall encourages individuals to provide nominations for the fifth annual Council of the Federation (COF) Literacy Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievement, innovation and excellence with regard to literacy in Saskatchewan.

The 2009 COF Award for Saskatchewan will recognize the significant contributions of a literacy leader who has contributed to the advancement of lifelong literacy development in Saskatchewan - either through public awareness, teaching, program development, volunteer work, research or innovation.

"This award celebrates and acknowledges the valuable work being done in communities across the province," Wall said. "Our government understands the importance of literacy that provides the foundation for lifelong learning and full participation of all people in society. Saskatchewan needs a highly literate and skilled workforce to meet our growing economic and social demands."

In 2004, the COF Literacy Award was established in partnership with all of Canada's premiers to increase awareness of literacy achievements, services and programs. Each province and territory participates in this award initiative by recognizing the importance of literacy in each jurisdiction. This award focuses on achievements in the literacy field, including family, aboriginal, health, workplace and community literacy and is presented to specific sectors such as volunteers, learners, community organizations and businesses.

Three external judges will be appointed to the 2009 COF Literacy Award Selection Committee that will meet in June. The Saskatchewan recipient of the COF Literacy Award will be announced with Literacy Award recipients from Canada's other provincial and territorial jurisdictions at the premiers' annual summer meeting in Regina in August. The presentation of the award will take place in the fall.

Nominations for this award will be accepted until June 10, 2009. To nominate an outstanding literacy leader, visit http://www.education.gov.sk.ca/literacy/federation-award/.

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For more information, contact:

Jacquie McLean
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5609
Email: jacquie.mclean@sasked.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-2261