Extra help for local school libraries

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

*********************

Elementary students in Nipissing are going to get extra help reading and learning in their school libraries thanks to a provincial government investment of $313,220 to hire more library staff, Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing and Minister of Revenue announced today.

“To keep Nipissing moving forward, we need everyone to be at their best — and that includes our youngest students,” said Smith. “We must ensure that every student has the help they need to reach their full potential.”

Details of local funding are as follows:

Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord
$73,310

Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic District School Board
$71,645

Near North District School Board
$108,275

Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l'Ontario
$59,990

Total
$313,220

Research shows that students who develop solid reading skills in elementary school have a better chance at success in high school and beyond.

Ontario will provide school boards across the province with an additional $40 million over the next four years to hire new library staff.

“We’re committed to making publicly funded education the very best education,” said Education Minister Kathleen Wynne. “That’s why we’re funding more library staff and investing in new books and computers — so our students have the tools they need to succeed.”

A majority of students in Grades 3 and 6 are scoring 10 per cent higher in reading, writing and math tests. Since 2004, more than a million new textbooks have been added to Ontario’s schools.

*********************