Released on October 12, 2000
Education Minister Jim Melenchuk today confirmed the province's commitment toaddress growing diversity among students.
In releasing Strengthening Supports – The Minister's Response to Special
Education Review, the minister accepts 58 recommendations made by the Special
Education Review Committee, including:
establishing a Children's Services Advisory Committee to provide
leadership in implementing the recommendations;
adopting, implementing and supporting the inclusive schools philosophy
which creates a supportive, caring and responsive environment;
renewing policies for students with diverse needs; and
developing a framework to better support students with diverse needs.
"As the diversity within schools increases, the unique needs of students gain
greater emphasis, challenging existing approaches and resources," Melenchuk
said. "To address future needs, our schools must be more supportive, caring
and responsive learning communities in which diversity is expected and
respected."
In the 2000-2001 Budget, the province signaled its strong commitment to
education by providing an additional $14 million to special education and $1.5
million to community education. The increased funding provides school
divisions with greater flexibility to address the needs of students.
The Special Education Review Committee was established in September, 1998. The
committee submitted its report Directions for Diversity to the minister in
January, 2000. The minister's response is available on Saskatchewan
Education's website (www.sasked.gov.sk.ca) or by calling (306) 787-1183.
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For further information contact:
Wanda Lyons
Saskatchewan Education
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-6052