Access and equity will be the focal point for the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports as it observes Special Education Week 2023 this week.
This year’s Special Education Week observance will be held under the theme, “Accessibility and Equity: A spectrum of possibilities” and Permanent Secretary in the aforementioned ministry Dr. Marcia Potter said her ministry will seek to enhance the experience for students across the territory.
“It is the aim of the Ministry of Education to strengthen its human capital through professional development opportunities, all the while increasing access and ensuring that equity is provided for all students.”
Acting Chief Education Officer Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe said seven Special Education Teachers completed the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commonwealth of Learning Assistive Technology course in July.
The course, she said, is a course aimed at identifying and utilising low-cost and low-tech devices to support the learning of students with special needs, also known as the Introduction to Assistive Technology.
“We continue in the commitment to special education needs and the hope to bring more awareness to the public in the upcoming week, all the while supporting the community of those with special needs,” Mrs. Crabbe stated.
The week of activities is as follows:
Monday, November 27 – Special Education Week Commences
Monday, November 27 – Friday, December 1 – Special Education Myth and Fact Special on the Government of the Virgin Islands Facebook page.
Tuesday, November 28 – Schools engage in activities; Panel discussion
Wednesday, November 29 – Special Education Word Recognition and General Knowledge Contest.
Thursday, November 30 – Special Education Video Highlights on the Government of the Virgin Islands Facebook page.
Friday, December 1 – Fun Night: Equity for all event at Cedar International School from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.