Minister writes letter to PSB asking for consultations and for schools to stop removal of memorials

Provincial Education Minister Rob Lantz says he has written a letter to the Public Schools Branch asking them to instruct their schools to immediately stop the removal of memorials and to reinstate those that were removed.  There’s been a backlash by many in the Island community since Tuesday following word that Kensington Intermediate Senior High School was removing a memorial wall honouring students and teachers who have passed away.  The Public Schools Branch announced Wednesday that it had begun work to provide guidance around memorials at Island schools, and would be seeking feedback on draft procedures it said are based on recommendations from the National Association of School Psychologists and in line with neighbouring provinces. That feedback period is to begin on Monday, December 2nd.  Under questioning on the matter in the legislature on Thursday, Lantz said that based on the understandable upset in the community that it has caused, he’s asked the Public Schools Branch to step back, stop what’s happening, and consult with the community.