“Things are okay in the class now, but they could be better…”
“We have to be on top of things, or he’ll slip through the cracks again…”
“She’s not getting enough support, plain and simple…”
If you haven’t spoken these words yourself, you have likely heard them from another family whose child has special education needs. These challenges are all too common for those of us who have school-aged children with physical disabilities.
Education Priority Issues Identified by Families
• Accessibility of schools and classrooms
• Assistive devices and specialized equipment
• Attitudes about disability
• Frequency of school-based therapy services (OT, PT, SLP)
• Inclusion and sense of belonging
• Support from special education staff, especially EAs
• Transitional support for students (moving between grades, schools, or into adulthood)
• Transportation, particularly for extracurricular activities and field trips
While it is highly encouraged that families work collaboratively with teachers and principals at the school level to solve individual matters, many parents recognize the ongoing need for systemic change in special education. One of the most valuable ways we can get involved is by joining our local school board’s Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC). By joining your local SEAC as an Easter Seals Ontario representative, you have the unique opportunity to advocate for all children with physical disabilities at the school board level.
What is a Special Education Advisory Committee?
The Ontario Education Act requires every district school board to establish a Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC). The members of the committee include:
• Volunteer representatives of local associations that serve children and youth with special education needs, such as Easter Seals Ontario
• Trustees of the school board
• Additional members or members–at–large
• Members of the school board staff who are non-voting members and act as a resource to the committee.
Who is Eligible to Become a Member of SEAC?
Members of SEAC must be:
• Over the age of 18 years
• A Canadian citizen
• Resident in the school board area
• An elector for the school board (an elector is a supporter who directs their taxes to the specific school board)
SEAC members cannot be employed by the school board.
For more information please contact Alison Morse at amorse@easterseals.org