To highlight World Teachers' Day, Education Minister Don McRae announced a new $5,000 Pathway to Teacher Training Scholarship today that will recognize exceptional Grade 12 students planning to enter the field of teaching.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to the top 20 outstanding graduating students intending to enter the teaching profession. Scholarship winners will receive a $5,000 voucher to redeem upon entrance to a post-secondary teacher-training program in British Columbia.

A committee of representatives from the BC Teachers' Federation, BC School Superintendents Association and BC Principals' and Vice Principals' Association will establish eligibility criteria for the new scholarship.

The scholarship will be funded as part of the provincial awards program with the first eligible cohort of students graduating this school year (2012-13).

World Teachers' Day is held annually on Oct. 5. A program of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the day celebrates all teachers and the essential role they play in providing quality education. This year's motto is, "Take a stand for teachers!"

Quote:

Education Minister Don McRae -

"We've made quality teaching and learning a key element of BC's Education Plan. To address that priority, the Pathway to Teacher Training Scholarship will reward future teachers and help attract the best and brightest to the profession."

Quick Facts:

• The B.C. provincial awards program was established in 1987-88 and includes Passport to Education, the Dogwood District/Authority Award, the Provincial Examinations Scholarship and the new Pathway to Teacher Training Scholarship.

Learn More:

BC's Education Plan: http://www.bcedplan.ca/

For more on student awards and scholarships, visit: www.bced.gov.bc.ca/awards/

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963