Released on September 8, 2014
The Saskatchewan recipient of the 10th annual Council of the Federation’s Premiers’ Literacy Award is Edith Klassen, a volunteer literacy tutor from Lanigan. Mrs. Klassen was nominated by Carlton Trail Regional College for her work assisting newcomers to learn English and adjust to life in Saskatchewan.
“Increasing the literacy levels of our citizens is vital to building a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan residents,” Premier Brad Wall said. “I am grateful for Mrs. Klassen’s dedication to literacy, education and culture in her community. Thanks to great ambassadors like Mrs. Klassen, all people, no matter how long they have lived in Saskatchewan, have the chance to share in the opportunities available in our growing province.”
Mrs. Klassen began volunteering as a literacy tutor through the Saskatchewan Reads program offered by Carlton Trail Regional College. After two training sessions, she began assisting newcomers to the Lanigan area with their English skills. Mrs. Klassen became involved with these newcomers and their families and realized that literacy was more than just learning a language; literacy also meant finding ways to contribute to the community and learning how to live in Canada.
The award was established by Canada’s premiers in 2005 and recognizes individuals for outstanding achievements and contributions to the field of literacy. A recipient is selected annually from each province and territory, and each award recipient receives a Literacy Award medallion, a certificate and a bursary.
The 2014 Premiers’ Literacy Award for Saskatchewan recognizes a literacy volunteer who currently contributes significant knowledge, time and expertise to assist literacy learners, communities and organizations in Saskatchewan.
The Premiers’ Literacy Award will be presented to Mrs. Klassen at a ceremony later this year. For more information on the literacy award, please visit www.education.gov.sk.ca/literacy/council-literacy-award.
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For more information, contact:
Kelly Johnston
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: kelly.johnston@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506