Why was the Education Accord NL established?

On January 25, 2024, the Honourable Krista Lynn Howell, (former) Minister of Education, announced the creation of Education Accord NL.

Education Accord NL, co-chaired by Dr. Anne Burke and Dr. Karen Goodnough, and Senior Advisor Katrina Moores, were tasked with developing a targeted approach to transforming and modernizing Newfoundland and Labrador’s education system. Read the announcement here.

While Newfoundland and Labrador’s education system has many strengths, it also faces challenges that need to be addressed to better support learners today and into the future. Issues like mental health and well-being, learning loss from COVID-19, chronic absenteeism, and lower adult literacy levels show that improvements are needed to ensure all learners can succeed. The province is also experiencing shifts in population, as well as rising concerns around bullying, school violence, and the need for greater inclusion.

At the same time, education must adapt to prepare learners for a changing world. This includes improving outcomes, supporting diverse learning needs, advancing Indigenous education, making the most of technology and artificial intelligence, and ensuring resources are better aligned across the system.

Who is part of the Accord?

To inform the Final Report and ensure broad consensus about the future of the education system, the co-chairs, the advisory board, and the four pillar committees consulted with students, educators and staff, families/caregivers, Indigenous governments and organizations, community groups and organizations, labour and industry representatives, and individuals with lived experience and expertise across the education spectrum. In addition, 8,681 responses were received in the Thought Exchange Online Survey.

You can view a list of committee members in Appendix B of the Final Report.

You can also read more about our leadership team Co-Chairs, Dr. Anne Burke and Dr. Karen Goodnough, and Senior Advisor Katrina Moores.

What does the report focus on?

The Education Accord NL focuses on building a stronger, more inclusive education system that supports learners at every stage—from early childhood through K–12, post-secondary, and lifelong learning. It will look at how to improve student success, promote health and well-being, support belonging and inclusion, and better connect education to the needs of families, communities, and the workforce. The Accord will also explore how to make the most of technology, prepare learners for a changing world, and ensure all parts of the education system work together to meet the needs of every learner.

How is Education Accord NL different from other reports and studies that already exist?

Education Accord NL is different because it takes a full-system view of education—from early learning through K–12, post-secondary, and lifelong learning. It is the first initiative of its kind in Newfoundland and Labrador to focus on the entire education ecosystem, with equity, health, well-being, and belonging at its foundation. What also sets it apart is the level of public engagement. The Accord is being shaped through direct input from students, families/caregivers, educators, community groups, Indigenous organizations, industry partners, and others with lived experience. It brings together research, community voices, and expert insight to create a long-term, action-focused plan that reflects the needs and priorities of people across the province.

What are some suggested changes to the education systems?

Engagement across the province has highlighted several key areas where people believe the education system should change to better meet the needs of all learners. One common theme is the need for seamless transitions between all levels of learning—ensuring that students are supported as they move from early childhood to K–12, through post-secondary, and into lifelong learning opportunities.

Another strong message is the importance of wraparound services—coordinated supports that address not just academics, but also mental health, nutrition, social services, and family needs, so that students can focus on learning.

People also emphasized the value of community partnerships and collaboration. Schools shouldn’t be working in isolation; they should be connected with families, community organizations, Indigenous communities, health services, and other sectors that support children and youth.

The Accord is also hearing a need to empower and professionalize the education workforce. This includes better support for early childhood educators, K-12 educators, support staff, and post-secondary faculty and instructors, ensuring they have the training, resources, and recognition they need to thrive in their roles.

Finally, there is a shared belief that education should focus on the holistic development of learners—supporting not only academic success, but also social and emotional well-being, identity, and a strong sense of belonging. This means building learning environments where every learner feels safe, seen, and supported.

These themes reflect a desire for a more connected, inclusive, and responsive education system that helps all learners reach their potential.

When will we see changes to our education system?

The Education Accord NL is a 10-year plan that outlines short-, medium-, and long-term actions to build a stronger, more inclusive education system in Newfoundland and Labrador. While some changes may begin in the near future, others will take more time as they require thoughtful planning, collaboration, and investment. Transforming a complex system doesn’t happen overnight—but this process is about making meaningful, lasting improvements that support learners at every stage.