NDP: Ford is failing children and families with his cuts to special education

QUEEN’S PARK — Following today’s Auditor General report on special education, Ontario NDP Shadow Education Minister Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West—Nepean), and Shadow Minister for the Ontario Autism Program Alexa Gilmour (Parkdale—High Park) say that Doug Ford’s underfunding is failing students, education workers, and families:

“Ontario’s special education system is in crisis,” said Pasma. “The province is failing students at every step. Teachers lack the resources to implement individual education plans, which along with exclusions, aren’t being tracked by the Ford government. Staff-to-student ratios are completely unsustainable; as many as eight students per educational assistant, and as many as 76 per teacher.

“Students aren’t getting the support they need. It’s not safe for them, or for education workers. The Premier is spending millions on private jets and vanity projects, while school boards can’t even cover the costs of this broken system. His priorities have never been clearer.”

“This report is frightening,” said Gilmour. “Despite the fact the Auditor General consistently heard that student needs are becoming increasingly complex, students and education workers have been cast aside by Doug Ford. Parents are forced to navigate a confusing system, where resources don’t include practical tools or how to access assistance.

“Every child deserves to be safe, happy, and supported in school, and not excluded because of a lack of resources. Every education worker deserves a safe working environment, where they’re empowered to make a difference in our kids’ lives. Parents and families deserve peace of mind. The Premier needs to stop ignoring these people, and start upholding his responsibilities.”