Government refuses to clarify whether or not specialized schools will close: NDP Education Critic

In Question Period today, NDP Education Critic Lisa Gretzky (MPP for Windsor West) called on the government to recognize the value of specialized (Provincial and Demonstration) schools by committing to keep these schools open. 

“Students who have had positive life-changing experiences are coming forward, sharing their stories,” said Gretzky. 'Parents have seen their children grow, thrive, and succeed. Experts in this sector have spoken publicly about the value of these schools. Even Pediatricians are coming forward. These schools help our most vulnerable kids.”

Consultations are currently taking place at all three English Demonstration Schools for students with severe learning disabilities (Amethyst Demonstration School in London, Trillium Demonstration School in Milton, and Sagonaska Demonstration School in Belleville) as well as Robarts School for the Deaf and Centre Jules-Léger (Ottawa) Provincial and Demonstration school. During the consultations, enrolment for the 2016-17 school year is frozen. 

“On this side of the house we believe that all children deserve equal access to education that allows them to thrive,” stated Gretzky. “If families want to benefit from these schools, they should have every right to do so. Will the Minister tell concerned families today that no provincial/demonstration school will be closed as a result of consultations?”