Statement from Minister Kent on Independent Education Review Panel’s first status report

Minister of Education Scott Kent has issued the following statement:

“This past March, our government appointed a four-member Independent Panel to lead a comprehensive review of the Department of Education. Their work is focused on supporting the long-term wellbeing of Yukoners by ensuring learners remain at the centre of our education system. This reflects our government’s commitment to review the Department of Education and conduct a thoughtful, transparent assessment of how we can better support students, families and educators across the territory now and in the future.  

“I am pleased to share the Independent Panel has provided its first status report, which confirms the need for significant improvements to the education system.

“Over the last three months, the panel established its workplan and began engaging with key partners, employees, the public and school communities. This work included extensive research and a review of previous reports.

“I have reviewed the status report, and we will advance its initial recommendations as soon as possible.

“As outlined at the start of this process, this review is examining how the Department of Education supports learners at every stage, from kindergarten through Grade 12 and post-secondary and adult learners. The review is also examining how services are delivered across the territory’s three school authorities.

“The panel’s work is grounded in a commitment to listen to Yukoners. I encourage Yukoners to read the panel’s first status report at www.yeir.ca and share their experiences and perspectives related to the Department of Education by contacting [email protected] by November.

“An additional public survey will launch later this year. The panel will provide an interim report in September and is expected to complete its review and submit a final report at year’s end.

“I thank the members of the Independent Panel for their work to date and for their commitment to this important review. I look forward to seeing how their findings and recommendations can help shape stronger supports for Yukon learners, families and educators across the three school authorities, including those accessing post-secondary and adult learners.”