Released on November 1, 2013
As a result of the recommendations made by Dr. Dennis Kendel to strengthen the teacher regulation process, Education Minister Don Morgan announced today that the Government of Saskatchewan is working with the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation on both short and long term changes to the regulatory model.
“It is in the public interest that the teaching profession in Saskatchewan have the privilege of full spectrum professionally-led regulation,” Kendel said. “However we reform the regulatory framework for teachers, that framework must serve the interests of students and their parents.”
A model officially separating the advocating and disciplinary bodies for teachers is the best option to effectively serve the interest of students according to Dr. Dennis Kendel, a professional regulation expert and past Registrar of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan. Over the summer, Dr. Kendel was contracted to research, consult and make recommendations around teacher professional regulation.
As an interim measure, the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation has agreed to immediately implement administrative measures that will strengthen and increase the transparency and public accountability of their current disciplinary process to ensure the safety of students.
“Transitioning to a new model for teacher professional regulation is going to require the support of the Federation and Saskatchewan teachers,” Morgan said. “I am confident this move will ensure the safety of our students, protect the integrity of the teaching profession and help to maintain public trust in the disciplinary process. However, it’s important that we continue to engage in deep listening with our teachers as we move through this process.”
Ministry officials will be immediately working with the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation on this transition.
Dr. Kendel’s full report is available on the Ministry of Education’s website at www.education.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506