New Brunswick Launches Teacher Training Pilot in Schools

Photo: Reuters

Starting this September, a new pilot project will give teachers and staff at 37 English-language schools in New Brunswick more time to focus on learning and improving their teaching. The project will offer about two professional learning days every month.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Claire Johnson said this plan is based on feedback from teachers who asked for more time to work together, reflect on student progress, and improve their skills. “By investing in the people who make the biggest impact in the classroom, students will benefit,” she said.

The idea for this pilot project came from both the school districts and the New Brunswick Teachers' Association. It also connects with a long-term plan to improve education across the province.

Under the new calendar, schools involved in the project will have up to 10 professional learning days during the year. These days will happen on Fridays to make things easier for families. The time will be used for teacher training, teamwork, and lesson planning.

Peter Lagacy, president of the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association, said he is excited by how many communities are ready to take part. He believes this extra time for school staff to work together will help students do better and support their well-being. “Giving schools dedicated time to focus on student learning will make outcomes stronger and help New Brunswick stand out,” he said.

Even with these extra learning days for staff, students will still receive the same amount of class time as students in top-performing provinces across Canada and other countries.

To help parents on these professional days, school districts are now working with local groups to offer childcare and fun activities for students.

This project is part of a bigger effort to improve student performance, make schools better places to work, and build more welcoming classrooms where every student can do their best.