Nova Scotia’s education minister says parents in a small community should take time to heal after several days of anxiety over the possibility a teacher who was convicted of committing indecent acts might return to the classroom.

Ramona Jennex says New Germany, Nova Scotia, has gone through a stressful time after learning Peter Speight was permitted to return to the classroom as a result of court ruling.

“It’s very important that the New Germany community take the time now to be assured that Mr. Speight will never be teaching in the province of Nova Scotia, ever,” she says.

“They can now start their journey of healing because I do feel that the community has had a great deal of stress over the last couple of days related to this situation.”

The local school board has voted in favour of a deal with Speight that includes he resign and surrender his teaching license.