Yellowknife — October 1, 2020
Today the Government of the Northwest Territories announced $12.371 million in new funding to support schools with the extra costs incurred as a result of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the total amount, $4.85 million is coming from the Government of Canada.
This joint initiative between the departments of Education, Culture and Employment and Finance will provide funding for:
· technology such as laptops, tablets, and at-home internet access
· additional teachers to allow more students to receive face-to-face instruction while adhering to physical distancing requirements,
· additional substitute teachers,
· additional custodians, and cleaning and sanitizing supplies,
· materials and supplies required for at-home learning, and
· personal protective equipment (PPE).
Quotes:
“The health, safety and wellbeing of students and educators remain the top priority as we begin to settle into the 2020-2021 school year. We have worked hard to ensure schools have the resources and supports in place to help mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 on our education system. It is our goal to continue offering an effective learning environment for all students as the global pandemic situation unfolds.”
- R.J. Simpson, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment
“The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for educators, students and families in the Northwest Territories. The GNWT is committed to supporting teachers, students and communities by ensuring our schools have the resources they need to continue to operate safely. This new funding will cover the additional costs that come with physical distancing, additional cleaning and disinfecting, and access to distance learning.”
-Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance
For all media requests, please contact:
Jaimee Kepa
Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
