Pilot project aims to ‘strengthen school staff experitse’ through revised calendar
Students in six District of Carleton North schools will be on a new calendar this fall. The pilot project will begin in September, providing approximately two professional learning days per month for staff at 37 anglophone schools in the province.
Schools in the Anglophone School District–West that are included in the project are:
• Bath Community School
• Bristol Elementary School
• Carleton North High School
• Florenceville Middle School
• Florenceville Elementary School
• Centreville Community School
“This pilot reflects what we’ve heard clearly from teachers: they need more time to work together, reflect on student progress and strengthen their practice,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson. “By investing in the people who make the greatest difference in the classroom, students benefit.”
Schools participating in the pilot project were chosen after the district surveyed parents on the new calendar option.
The pilot allows time for professional improvement, reflection and collaboration and is in response to a request from Anglophone school districts and the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association. It is also the result of work associated with the long-term recommendation project team and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening teaching and learning across the province.
Participating schools will have a revised calendar with up to 10 professional learning days, dedicating up to two days per month to professional learning, targeted teacher training, collaboration and planning. These days will fall on Fridays to support routine and minimize family disruption.
“We’re encouraged by the enthusiasm of the communities stepping forward to take part in this pilot, which has the potential to transform how school staff collaborate to support student achievement and well-being,” said New Brunswick Teachers’ Association president Peter Legacy. “Providing schools with dedicated time to focus on student learning will strengthen outcomes and give New Brunswick a competitive advantage.”
Students in participating schools will receive the same learning time as those in provinces with the best results on recent national and international assessments.
School districts are beginning to collaborate with local organizations to identify childcare and recreation options for families on professional learning days.
The pilot is part of a broader strategy to improve student achievement, retain and recruit educators, and create more positive and inclusive learning environments.
