Update needed on Liberals' plan to act on inclusive education

HALIFAX -- Almost a year after the report by the Commission on Inclusive Education, the Liberals need to update concerned parents and teachers on how the report’s recommendations are specifically being implemented.

“Almost a year ago, Minister Churchill said he accepted the broad objectives of this report but beyond a one time investment in additional staff it isn’t clear what the government is doing to build an inclusive education system,” said NDP Education spokesperson Claudia Chender. “The public needs to know what the Minister is doing to ensure we create a truly inclusive system as was laid out by the commission’s report.”

The report laid out a five-year plan to move Nova Scotia towards an inclusive education system that supports students with diverse abilities. Parents and community members are concerned that not enough is being done to make real changes in our schools.

“While more support workers are welcome, we need to properly determine how they fit into our schools and classrooms in order to have the most positive impact,” said Allison Garber, whose child is on the autism spectrum. “There’s a lack of clarity and accountability around this roll-out. I’ve heard loud and clear from teachers, parents, and students that revamping our inclusive education model is the most pressing issue facing our classrooms – we need to see this reflected in the government’s approach.”

The NDP is calling on the Minister of Education to be accountable to families and educators by releasing a public plan with clear timelines and measurable goals.

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