Education and Advanced Learning Minister Peter Bjornson helped kick off “I Love to Read Month” for students, teachers and parents by highlighting this year’s theme, Literacy is a Human Right.
“When you consider the profound effect reading and writing have on our everyday lives, it’s clear that access to quality education is a basic human right that every child deserves,” said Minister Bjornson. “Literacy empowers individuals, and enriches families and communities.”
I Love to Read month is celebrated every February to encourage reading, writing and sharing in the joy of literacy. This year’s theme is in recognition of the opening of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, the minister noted.
“The recent announcement of new targeted literacy supports will ensure that all children get a good foundation on their reading, writing and critical thinking skills so they have the tools they need to engage the world as active citizens,” the minister said. “By continuing to invest in public education, providing targeted supports to newcomer students and making important changes to the language arts curriculum, we’re providing high-quality education to our students so that parents see results.”
“The first duty of a public education system is to help create citizens,” said Paul Olson, president, Manitoba Teachers’ Society. “Literate citizens ask hard questions, demand good government and create a society that values human rights. Literacy is essential to the great futures we want for our children and our province.”
Minister Bjornson noted parents and family members play a major role in helping young children learn to enjoy reading.
“Parents are their children’s first teacher and set their children on the path to be lifelong readers and learners,” the minister said. “Reading is a positive activity that families can do together and I encourage parents to take the time to read with their kids as part of I Love to Read Month and throughout the year.”
