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Roland Butler, Opposition Education Critic and MHA for the District of Port
De Grave, says while he was pleased that government announced the
elimination of most school fees earlier this week, he is disappointed that
the growing cost of high school textbooks will remain a burden to parents
and students in this province. "The announcement made by government
earlier this week outlining which school fees would be eliminated was a step
in the right direction," said Mr. Butler. "Many of these fees created undue
hardship on families and forced many students to go without necessary
educational materials. Some of these fees also excluded certain students
from participating in various activities.
"While I fully support this initiative, I was disappointed that the costs
associated with high school textbooks will remain the responsibility of
parents and students. The cost of these books is growing every year and some
parents are expressing their concern that they cannot afford to pay these
high fees.
"Over the past few days, I have received several calls from concerned
parents. While they are pleased that many of the other school fees have been
eliminated, they cannot understand why government would not address the
costs associated with textbooks. Some are even suggesting that their
children will have to go without their school books because they cannot
afford to buy them.
"I would strongly encourage government to examine the possibility of
covering the costs associated with high school textbooks. It is not
acceptable to jeopardize a student’s education because of these fees. Every
child in this province should have equal access to textbooks and learning
opportunities, no matter what level of income their family earns. I hope the
minister considers rectifying this situation before the next school year
begins."
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