A review of special education programs and services in the province begins in earnest this month. The review, which will examine the process of identifying and assessing students whose educational needs cannot be satisfied through the use of conventional methods, will be carried out by the consulting team of Edward Mackey. Mackey's Newfoundland firm submitted the winning proposal, in a competition that saw only out of province interests provide submissions. The firm will be assisted by Warren & Roe Associates, New Wave Research Inc., and Dr. Kathleen Kufeldt.
In conducting the Special Education review, consultants will be focusing on the means through which students who may have intellectual, physical, social, or any other learning difficulties are currently accommodated. The purpose of this project is to look at ways in which the avenues utilized for the delivery of special education programs and services can be improved. In addition, review recommendations will pinpoint a more expedient and effective methodology for future implementation.
"The delivery of quality educational programs to students with special needs is an integral goal of our current school mandate," says Honorable Chester Gillan, Minister of Education. "By analyzing current practices such as the definitions used to identify students with special needs, and by exploring other areas like professional support, ‘best practices', and organizational policy, it is our hope to establish a better understanding of the present status of special education in the province. This review
will elicit the information that is necessary to move forward and concentrate on providing a more comprehensive special needs curriculum."
Groundwork for the review began in February, and consultants are presently working on developing a plan, which will become the blueprint for the six-month project. Submission of a final report is scheduled for the end of July.
In remarking on the critical importance of the Mackey Special Education Review, Deputy Minister of Education, Elaine Noonan noted that this work is timely, and will prove to be invaluable. "The field of special education has changed dramatically in the past twenty years. The public awareness of the plight of challenged children, and the shift in philosophy regarding the education of students with special needs have precipitated a more proactive approach. And, we have risen to the occasion! With the growing demand for resources and support, and the reality that all Island students are affected, the Department commissioned this work so as to determine the most appropriate strategies for future direction and planning. Once we have that information, we will be able to map out our next steps."
Edward Mackey has a wide range of experience in policy development, and specializes in implementing, monitoring and evaluating special education programs at the provincial level.
For more information contact: Eldon Rogerson, Director of English Programs and Services, Department of Education at (902) 368-6070.