Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I do not agree there are flaws in the policy of inclusion. I came across an interesting article just in the past few days where a survey of teachers in Ontario had found that they agreed, almost unanimously, that the policy of inclusion was, in fact, the best way to educate young people. There is concern in our communities that perhaps the policy of inclusion is not as successful as it should be because there is not enough support in the classroom for all of the students. The department has taken notice of this concern. As I have told this House previously, the special needs portion of the school funding formula is the only area in the formula which has increased over the past four years consistently. The department is aware of the concerns and the need to do what we can to provide the best support possible in the classroom. However, the policy itself is still the best way to make sure a program of education is provided to kids with special needs, and we will, therefore, be continuing with it.
Charles Dent on Committee Motion 2-13(5): To Amend Committee Motion 1-13(5)
In the Legislative Assembly on October 23rd, 1997. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 2-13(5): To Amend Committee Motion 1-13(5)
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
October 23rd, 1997
Page 162
See context to find out what was said next.