Media release: “When a child is hungry; when they aren’t sure where home will be at the end of the day; when they don’t have adequate clothing; it’s very hard for them to focus on learning,” says Wozney. “The evidence is clear that on average, children living in poverty experience worse academic outcomes and are twice as likely to drop out of school. They also have a much higher chance of developing a mental health issue.”

Raymond Sheppard: “The education system in Nova Scotia continues to fail African Nova Scotian learners. There is very little in this system that reflects our history, perseverance, indomitable spirit, contributions, culture or accomplishments.”

On Saturday, parents, teachers, students, and community members will gather in Halifax for a day of learning and discussion at the Social Justice Education Symposium. The teacher-organized event includes workshops and panel discussions ranging from climate change to supporting African Nova Scotian learners.

Cuts to the Early Literacy Support Program reveal how the educational establishment in Nova Scotia no longer believes in equal opportunity and inclusion, writes Nancy Spina, a former teacher and a parent of kids with disabilities.