Education
February 7, 2013

Minister Proclaims Inclusive Education Month

In order to highlight the importance of an education system that appreciates what all children have to offer, the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, has declared February Inclusive Education Month in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“As a government we believe it is important that our education system welcomes and supports all students, and we offer them the best possible education in a manner which helps them succeed academically and socially,” said Minister Jackman. “Inclusive practices in schools recognize that each child should be respected and valued for who they are, regardless of their physical or intellectual capabilities, sexual orientation, race, religious affiliation, or any other characteristic.”

The Provincial Government invests $1.3 million annually to support inclusive practices in schools in areas such as teacher training in inclusive philosophy, instructional strategies to meet the needs of diverse learners, and the provision of assistive technology and alternative format materials for students.

“Keeping the best interests of the child front and centre by supporting them to learn, contribute and participate in all aspects of the life of the school is key to advancing inclusive education,” said Dennis Gill, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association for Community Living. “Having principals, teachers, student assistants, parents, students and others work collaboratively to determine the most effective ways of providing a quality education is a positive step toward inclusive education. Inclusive schools build inclusive communities.”

For more on the Provincial Government’s inclusive education initiatives visit: www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/k12/inclusion.html.

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Photo: The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education, signs a proclamation declaring February Inclusive Education Month in Newfoundland and Labrador. Pictured, from front left, are Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Association for Community Living (NLACL); Minister Jackman, and Guy Marsh, Finance and Communications Assistant (NLACL). From back left are Jackie Fewer-Bennett, Inclusive Education Consultant, Department of Education and Pam Anstey, Information Officer with Epilepsy Newfoundland Labrador.

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2013 02 07                             11:00 a.m.