The importance of providing an education system that welcomes and supports all students is being highlighted this week as the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education, joined the Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Community Living (NLACL) to proclaim February 15-21 as Inclusive Education Week.

"The right of all students to attend their neighbourhood school with their peers and to receive an appropriate and quality education is the hallmark of an inclusive education system," said Minister Burke. "We want all our students, regardless of their level of ability, to be able to learn and achieve. We want all students welcomed and valued in our classrooms and schools. That�s an inclusive education system at its best."

Advances in inclusive education are being made based on the recommendations of the ISSP/Pathways report regarding the delivery of programming and supports to students with special needs. The Provincial Government has allocated $5.3 million over three years to support the implementation of the recommendations, such as the creation of a new policy on inclusion, and improved professional development so that teachers are able to respond to the learning needs of all students.

A pilot project has been initiated in 15 schools throughout the province to help build on inclusive education practices. In addition, the Department of Education is partnering with the NLACL in hosting inclusive education seminars. These seminars are bringing together representatives from the pilot schools and other educators from all school districts. The focus of the seminars is to promote inclusive education practices throughout schools in the K-12 system. Sessions have been held in the Western and Labrador Districts, with two more planned for Eastern and Nova Central. Award-winning leader of the inclusive education movement and Director of Inclusive Education Initiatives with the Canadian Association for Community Living, Dr. Gordon Porter, provided the keynote address at these seminars, and will return for the remaining two.

"We have an historic opportunity to build a truly inclusive education system in our province," said Ray McIsaac, President of the NLACL. "Families are encouraged to see leadership rise up to support their vision of inclusive schools and dynamic classrooms where all children have the right to learn."

Work is also progressing with education and community stakeholders on the development of an inclusive education policy. Minister Burke noted that by seeking input from education stakeholders and advocacy groups, the new policy will accurately reflect the values of inclusive education.

"Inclusive education requires a collaborative, systemic effort among all parties with a vested interest in the education of all children and youth," said Minister Burke. "As we move ahead with this important development in our education system, I look forward to working with partners such as the NLACL to make sure schools welcome every child, and provide meaningful learning opportunities for all."

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