The annual debate currently rages in the OCDSB over the extent to which the board requires congregated classes for the support of children identified with exceptionalities versus supporting these children in the regular class-room. Currently, approximately 85% of identified children in the OCDSB are already in the regular classroom, where they are receiving a variety of supports.
A consultation process to be implemented for receipt of input from stakeholders between November 2007 and mid-January 2008, prior to Board decisions in February 2008 on the following changes to special education system classes for the 2008-2009 school year:
• Closure of 2 BSP programs
• Relocation of 1 elementary DD program
• Closure of 1 DSP and relocation of remaining students
• Closure 1 primary gifted program
• Closure of 1 SK/LLD program
Information about the above and other proposed changes can be found at:
http://www.ocdsb.ca/Board/Meetings/2007_Meetings/December_2007/SEAC_Dec5_2007/SEAC_Dec5_2007.htmClick on agenda item #9.
Consultation meetings regarding proposed changes to Special Education Classes, Programs and Services are on:
Thursday, December 13, 2007 -7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. 133 Greenbank Road, Board Room
Thursday, January 10, 2008 – 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Gloucester High School, Library
Thursday, January 17, 2008 - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m Bell High School, Cafeteria
All parents should be aware that the transition to an inclusive model for Special Education may have impacts in the regular classroom.
Trustee Rob Campbell states "The Ministry, and indeed Minister Wynne, have very much been pushing the idea of 'inclusive' or 'integrated' or 'decongregated' regular classroom-based instruction and in-class or withdrawal support for most special needs exceptionalities most of the time. Last year a report was delivered which reviewed our Board's special education delivery and damned it for over-congregation. Some have slammed back at this report in kind."
Full article on Trustee Campbell's web site
OCDSB will be holding two sessions where parents, staff, and community members will have the opportunity to share concerns, ideas, and recommendations regarding Special Education Programs and Services for the 2008-2009 school year in advance of possible proposed changes.
