April 07, 2005

Statement by Mario Sergio, M.P.P. York West

Driftwood Public School, Literacy Achievement

Mr. Speaker,

It is with great pride that I rise today to congratulate, the literacy achievements of hard working students in my riding. The Grade 3 test performance of Driftwood Public School, has put them in the top 10 % of the schools in the province.

Driftwood stands as a testimony, that students can obtain success once given proper instruction and the necessary pooled resources. Effectual results came from collaboration between teachers, leadership from the principal, outreach to parents, and literacy programs.

It was said that the teachers would not allow the acceptance of excuses such as poverty or 'living in high rises', for poor performance levels. The tough love and discipline implemented by the teachers and principal has been rewarded with a 64% student-passing rate.

Mr. Speaker,

I also applaud the positive forward steps the McGuinty government has taken with much needed funding allocations for our community schools. For example; The Toronto District School Board has approved a preliminary budget of over 2 million dollars.

• The Community use of School Initiatives; over 3 million
• The good Places to Learn Stage 1 Allocation 12 million
• The very important Primary Class Size Initiative, ;) has been designated over 12 million dollars, will give students the focused care, and instruction they deserve

Mr. Speaker,

Literacy is the foundation of academia.

It is imperative that we do all we can with our children to stimulate their intellect, heighten their curiosity, and give them the tools by which to express themselves. By articulating concepts and ideas, we enable them to bring structure and life to their innate creativity.

Once again, congratulations, on a job well done.