Teachers' union says junior high renewal is needed but student course choice is not the answer

NLTA president Trent Langdon says this overlooks critical issues that continue to impact teaching and learning,  such as class size and composition, school resourcing, violence and safety, and the many factors outside of school that have a significant impact on absenteeism and engagement. 

While the union representing teachers in this province acknowledges the need for junior high renewal the president has questions about timing and focus.  Trent Langdon is head of the Newfoundland Labrador Teachers Association. Having been a guidance counsellor for the past 15 years, Langdon says this is long overdue. He says absenteeism is high, interest is low, and levels of performance are down. Langdon says curriculum renewal is needed to meet the needs of students but student choice alone is not the answer. He says this overlooks critical issues that continue to impact teaching and learning,  such as class size and composition, school resourcing, violence and safety, and the many factors outside of school that have a significant impact on absenteeism and engagement. 

As well, there are concerns regarding the long-term impact of leaving it to adolescents to make decisions around second language learning and exposure to music, visual arts and social studies. Langdon says teachers are wondering what options won’t be there in senior high and beyond as a result. He says it makes sense to wait and implement final recommendations on the Education Accord during 2026-27 to allow time to carefully assess stakeholder feedback.