News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE--SPECIAL EDUCATION POLICY RELEASED ----------------------------------------------------------------- Increased parental involvement, program planning to meet individual student needs and consistency in programs and services province-wide are just some of the features of the province's first special education policy, released today by Education and Culture Minister John MacEachern. A draft policy was widely circulated for review to teachers, administrators, school boards, advocacy groups and parents. Comments were gathered and analysed and changes were made accordingly. "We wanted a document that reflected the ideas and expertise of as many people as possible," said Mr. MacEachern. "The response to the new policy was positive and many of the comments received have helped to strengthen the document." The policy is a framework for assisting school boards, teachers and parents working as a team, to determine the best approach for assisting students with special needs. Approximately 17 per cent of the students in public schools are considered to have special needs, meaning they require support, in addition to what is normally provided in the classroom, to achieve educational outcomes. This also applies to gifted students, who often require additional support to reach their full potential. Developed in consultation with the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, the Nova Scotia Teachers Union and professionals who work with students with special needs, the policy aims to give education partners the flexibility to develop solutions that respond to the strengths and challenges of individual students. In developing the guidelines, policy makers reviewed materials from other provinces, the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. One of the most important changes is the focus on parents as key decision makers in the individual program planning process. "Parents are the key," said Mr. MacEachern. "They know their children best and can help develop a comprehensive program that meets their child's needs, as well as provide support or assistance, when needed, at home." In addition to increased parental involvement, the policy also focuses on developing program plans to meet specific student needs, before determining how and where programs will be implemented. The policy emphasizes inclusive schooling, which encourages the participation and learning of all students in school programs. -30- Contact: Lisa Bugden 902-424-2795 trp Apr. 09, 1996 - 4:30 p.m.