BY KATHY MCDONALD
Applied or academic? How do they impact my child? What is an IEP …Individual Educational Plan? What is an OSR (Ontario Student Record)? Who, when why and how can ones OSR be accessed? Do parent’s voices really matter? I ‘m frustrated and feel like my child’s needs are not being met; now what? What are the tools and resources available to our family to help with a special needs child, a bright child or a defiant child? Suspensions, expulsions and the options available to at risk students. Bussing, bussing bussing!!!!! These are just a few of the questions and issues that will be explored in this column.
I am honoured to join the writing team at Toronto Caribbean. Before delivering my bi-weekly column I would like to first introduce you to my vision for the articles that will be submitted. These articles are tools that will aid readers to navigate public education in Ontario.
A firm believer in public education, I consider myself an ambassador for Public Education. I think that the primary role of a trustee is to manage the budget, liaison with taxpayers and parents, to explain policies and decisions of the board, as well as to work with all levels of government to help ensure student success. The Board of Trustees is the governing arm of the education sector, the Director’s office oversees the operational aspects. It is very important to respect both facets.
As a trustee I will continue to work in my areas of interest, particularly, parent involvement. I strongly believe that the most important factor in a child’s success in school is the support and involvement of their parents in whatever form that may take. I have a strong grasp of challenges facing newcomers and Canadians with Caribbean heritage to the Canadian educational system and look forward to discussing innovative strategies that can be employed to help newcomers as well as Caribbean Canadians integrate and succeed.
I strongly believe that the most valuable gift that we can give a child is an all rounded first-class education that maximizes the potential within each student. I truly believe that this can be accomplished within the realm of a public education. With parents as partners this ultimate objective can be achieved. I look forward with great anticipation as we journey together and explore the realm of the Public Education.
So Walk Good.. Belle Marche
