Released on October 28, 2014
During a ceremony today at the Legislature, Education Minister Don Morgan presented Edith Klassen of Lanigan with the 2014 Council of the Federation (COF) Premiers’ Literacy Award.
“On behalf of Premier Brad Wall, I am pleased to present Mrs. Klassen with this distinguished award,” Morgan said. “She is a remarkable ambassador for literacy, education and engagement, and I am proud to have such an incredible Saskatchewan resident be recognized for her contributions to her community.”
Mrs. Klassen was nominated for the COF Premiers’ Literacy Award by Carlton Trail Regional College where she volunteers as a literacy tutor. After two training sessions at Carlton Trail Regional College, Mrs. Klassen began assisting newcomers to the Lanigan area learn English through the Saskatchewan Reads program. As Mrs. Klassen became involved with the newcomers and their families, she realized that literacy was more than just learning a language; literacy also meant finding ways to contribute to the community and adjust to life in Saskatchewan.
“Mrs. Klassen has impacted the lives of newcomers in her community by helping them develop language and literacy skills that will bring them success in their new home,” Morgan said. “Her work and friendship with these newcomers has contributed to their well-being, education and employment. Because of her dedicated work, she has made Saskatchewan a better province for us all.”
Created by Canada's Premiers, the COF Literacy Award has been awarded since 2005 in each province and territory. The award recognizes the valuable contributions of Canadians in the field of literacy, including family, Aboriginal, health, workplace and community literacy. Each award recipient receives a certificate signed by the Premier, a COF Premiers’ Literacy Award medallion and, in Saskatchewan, a small bursary in appreciation of the work literacy volunteers do.
For more on the COF Premiers’ Literacy Award, including information on how to make a nomination for 2015, visit www.education.gov.sk.ca/literacy.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Kelly Johnston
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: kelly.johnston@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506