New Brunswick is making changes to how future teachers are prepared for the classroom, through new agreements with three universities.
The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development announced agreements with the University of New Brunswick, St. Thomas University and Crandall University to strengthen teacher preparation and improve student learning.
The department said elementary education programs must now include at least six literacy‑focused credit hours, with three hours dedicated to early reading foundations, often referred to as the science of reading.
The change adds about 45 hours of coursework in early reading instruction, according to a government release.
Education Minister Claire Johnson said the agreements are part of the province’s work to improve literacy outcomes.
“We’re helping equip the next generation of teachers to ensure that students in New Brunswick schools are supported and ready to learn for years to come,” Johnson said.
She added that stronger preparation in early literacy will help future teachers use evidence‑based approaches, assessment data and inclusive instructional practices.
The department explained that the requirements align with the province’s new 12‑year education plans, which prioritize strong foundations in literacy and numeracy.
The agreements replace those signed in 2010 and include updated teaching standards for the anglophone sector that reflect current research, government priorities and the realities of today’s classrooms.
The updated standards outline the knowledge, skills, values and professional commitments expected of graduates.
They include expectations for understanding universal design for learning, using a range of instructional strategies, and relying on assessment and evaluation data to guide instruction and intervention.
Each standard includes a practice section to show how the expectations apply in classrooms.
Post‑Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean‑Claude D’Amours emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“It’s crucial future teachers graduate with the skills to meet the needs of today’s students,” D’Amours said.
He added that working together is the best way to achieve that goal.
The faculties of education at the three universities worked with the department, school districts and the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association to update the agreements and finalize the teaching standards.
Grant Williams, director of the school of education at St. Thomas University, said the renewed agreement reflects a shared commitment to preparing graduates with evidence‑informed practices.
Petra Hauf, UNB’s provost and vice‑president academic, added that literacy is foundational to learning and student success.
Nancy Matthews, dean of Crandall University’s school of education, said the collaboration helps ensure graduates are prepared to meet student needs.
Heidi Ryder, president of the New Brunswick Teachers’ Association, explained that strong standards for teacher education programs help strengthen the profession.
She said the focus on early‑years literacy gives teachers a solid foundation to build on.
