On March 24, 2017, the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development created the Commission on Inclusive Education as an arms-length body under the provisions of the Teachers’ Professional Agreement and Classroom Improvements (2017) Act to examine the model of inclusive education in Nova Scotia. How children with special needs are supported in classrooms and schools is a highly complex and charged issue for educators and families and students themselves. New Leaf supported the commission to build a vibrant invitation strategy. We worked with the Commissioners to develop presentation materials and design questions for a rich engagement of perspectives. Sera Thompson facilitated a series of 4 public engagements in Yarmouth, Stellarton, Sydney and Halifax, which often included passionate and divergent voices. Over 400 people attended these sessions bringing together educators, families, administrators, advocates and the public for a respectful and lively exchange of ideas and a chance to for everyone to share their priorities.
Fall-Winter 2017