Full-Day Learning

The McGuinty government is moving forward with full-day learning in Sault Ste. Marie that will help local children and their families get the best start in life starting this September, David Orazietti, MPP announced today.    The three Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board schools selected in the year-one phase in are; St. Bernadette, St. Patrick and St. Theresa. 

"By creating a full day of integrated learning in the early years, we are providing children in our community with more opportunities for success," said Orazietti. "Today’s announcement is a key part of our government’s plan to build a stronger school system and a well-educated workforce."

"By giving our four and five year olds a stronger start in school, we’re giving them a stronger start in life. Full-day early learning will help more children, their families and Ontario’s communities thrive," said Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Education.

Parents who are interested in registration for full-day learning classes, including the before and after program, should contact their local school or school board.

In full-day learning classrooms, teachers and registered early childhood educators will work together to help children learn and develop emotional, social and academic skills that are crucial for healthy development. Schools will also offer extended day programs led by early childhood educators. Parents can enroll their child in these integrated programs for a reasonable fee, giving children even more opportunities to learn, play and grow.

"We know that families and children in the Sault and Algoma need and want full-day learning. I’m so excited that we’re taking the important first step towards giving all of our four and five year olds a firmer foundation for learning – and for life," said HSCDSB Director of Education John Stadnyk.

Ontario is investing $1.5 billion in the education of our youngest students to better prepare them for future success. When fully implemented in all schools in Ontario by 2015-16 there will be 3800 new teaching positions and up to 20,000 Early Childhood Educator positions. 

Today’s announcement is part of the McGuinty government’s continuing commitment to support education in Sault Ste. Marie. The McGuinty government has invested an additional $27 million in Sault Ste. Marie schools over the last 6 years despite a decline in enrolment of 4129 students. As a result, per pupil funding is up 50% over the same period, which has allowed local boards to maintain an additional 79 teaching positions. The province has also committed over $70 million to construct new local schools for the first time in more than 30 years.