Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise my colleagues that February 24th to March 2nd is Education Week in the Northwest Territories.

This year's theme, "Choose to Move...Move for Health!" highlights a holistic approach to education and is a joint effort between the departments of Education, Culture and Employment, Health and Social Services, Municipal and Community Affairs, Sport North and the NWT Recreation and Parks Association.

Mr. Speaker, with almost 35 percent of our population under the age of 19 years, and the growing prevalence of obesity among children, this year's Education Week theme reflects the reality that we must emphasize an active lifestyle. Physical activity improves our health, our capacity for learning and enhances our experiences within families and communities.

Studies show that daily physical activity improves student performance in the areas of memory, problem solving, decision-making, reading and mathematical skills. There is also a proven increase in attention and productivity.

To help support schools and communities in their planning of Education Week, comprehensive resource packages were developed and distributed to all territorial educational institutions, recreation offices and health centres. In keeping with our continuing support of our official languages, the posters promoting the theme of Education Week were developed in English, French and seven aboriginal languages. Each of you in the House today will have received copies of these posters and packages for your use.

Schools have been encouraged to develop fitness trails as part of their Education Week activities this year. Today, as we launch Education Week, guests will be visiting the trail developed by the students of K'alemi Dene School in Ndilo. I invite each of you to take the opportunity to visit a school and actively demonstrate your support of physical activity by trying their fitness trail.

Our annual celebration of education is an excellent opportunity for each of us to reflect on the ways in which we can enhance not only our own well-being, but the well-being of our families, our schools and our communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.