Schools as Community Hubs - 13th Annual Report on Ontario’s Publicly Funded Schools

People for Education recently released their 13th annual report on publicly funded schools in Ontario. http://www.peopleforeducation.com/annualreportschools09
Based on school surveys, community consultation, EQAO results and academic studies, the report provides an analysis of the current state of Ontario’s schools and makes recommendations to move the system forward. The report recommends that schools become community hubs, connecting with local institutions and those offering recreational, cultural and employment opportunities for youth. The report shows that Ontarians want schools that have strong links to their communities and graduate students with diverse skills and the ability to think critically and creatively.
Library staff already have good connections with local schools. This report indicates the time is ripe for an even stronger alliance between schools and MPL, starting with conversations that took place during recent kindergarten outreach visits, with Children’s Services Department staff and school staff exploring further collaboration opportunities.