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."

Now that Bill 22, the Education Improvement Act, has been passed by the legislature, teachers' strike action will be suspended and a mediator will be appointed to work with the BC Teachers' Federation and the BC Public School Employers Association toward a negotiated agreement.

Since being appointed Education Minister last March, I've had the pleasure of visiting 95 schools and half of the province's 60 school districts. I've met with hundreds of teachers, students, parents and administrators.