Student to serve on minister's council

OSHAWA, ON, May 13 /CNW/ - Durham Catholic District School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Chandler, student at St. James Catholic School in Ajax, to the Minister of Education's Student Advisory Council.

Thomas was one of 60 students chosen to the council from all areas of the education system including English/French, Public/Catholic. Students from across the province from grades 7 to 12, interested in having a stronger voice in education, can apply to the ministry to become a member of council.

The council's objective is for members to share their ideas and advice with the Minister of Education on how to make Ontario's schools the best in the world and to empower students to 'be the change.' It's an opportunity to think big, SpeakUp and take action to help other students across the province.

Quotes: "This is a prestigious appointment and I'd like to congratulate Thomas. I know he will be as active and influential a member of the minister's council as he is here in our Catholic school community." - Donna Modeste, Principal, St. James Catholic School.

"We encourage all students to take an active role in decisions affecting their education. Thomas volunteering to serve on this council demonstrates the dedication of our students at the Durham Catholic District School Board." - Jim McCafferty, Chair of the Board.

Quick Facts:

    
     -  In October 2008 the Minister of Education announced the Student Voice
        initiative within the Student Engagement Strategy, to reach every
        student and have a graduation rate of 85 percent by 2010-11.

     -  The initiative encourages Ontario students to participate in three
        ways:
           1) applying for the Minister's Student Advisory Council,
           2) applying for SpeakUp projects, and
           3) attending regional forums.
    

Learn more: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/students/speakup/index.html

For further information: Darlene Rich, Communications Officer, [phone] ext. 2318; or Paul Pulla, Director of Education, ext. 2317