In 1998, the British Columbia Teachers' Federation (BCTF) failed to convince school trustees that entrenching rigid ratios and formulas in the provincial contract was the right thing to do for students or the education system.

In British Columbia, we are seeing increasing success for both on- and off-reserve Aboriginal students.

Aiden is seven years old, and at the beginning of the school year last fall his family was worried about his reading. Now, because of his teacher's expertise in literacy, Aiden is excited to read - especially books about Star Wars.

British Columbia has a great education system. We have skilled teachers and high levels of student achievement. But as good as it is - education must keep pace with a rapidly changing world.

Education is a key issue for many British Columbian families, and our government shares this priority. Our goal is to offer the best education possible for our young people.

Every year, the Fraser Institute's ranking of schools prompts discussion and debate about what makes a great school.

This government has announced a proposed new framework to bring about 10 years of labour peace with B.C. teachers. We have a great education system in this province, but wherever I travel in B.C. people tell me that it is time we put students first.

This spring, 13 carpentry students from two southern Vancouver Island high schools got a chance to put their trades training to the test in Sooke.

Dr. Seuss once said, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."