Inclusion Nova Scotia is already receiving reports from concerned parents about their children being excluded due to disabilities as the first full week of school nears its end. Executive director Brian Foster expressed alarm but noted that this issue is not unexpected.
A recent report by the advocacy group highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by students with complex needs within the public education system. The report, based on a national survey that included responses from Nova Scotia parents and guardians, revealed that a significant number of respondents described ongoing exclusion incidents rather than isolated occurrences. The majority reported that the situations were not effectively resolved.
Examples of exclusion included formal suspensions and partial school days, as shared by parents in their responses. Reasons cited for the exclusion ranged from lack of staff and untrained personnel to safety and behavior concerns.
Foster emphasized that Nova Scotia’s inclusive education policy, which advocates for full-day instruction for all students with necessary support, is not being adequately implemented. The goal of inclusive education, according to Foster, is to enable students to actively participate in various activities alongside their peers, with the needed assistance for their success.
Parent and advocate Anna MacQuarrie highlighted the ongoing struggle to secure appropriate support for her three children with disabilities within the school system. She stressed the importance of not just placing children in classrooms but also ensuring they have the essential resources, accommodations, and plans for their growth.
Education Minister Brendan Maguire acknowledged the importance of inclusive education and stated that the government has made significant investments in this area, with more staff and training opportunities available than ever before. He pledged to address the issues raised in the report and collaborate with Inclusion Nova Scotia for better implementation of inclusive education policies.
The organization is urging the province to fully implement inclusive education policies, establish accountability measures for exclusion, and provide personalized support to prevent exclusion incidents. Maguire confirmed that the Department of Education is already working on implementing most of the report’s recommendations.
In response to students feeling excluded due to their differences, Maguire reiterated that every student has the right to education, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all.
Foster stressed the long-term impact of how students are treated in school, emphasizing the benefits of inclusion for overall well-being and future success.