One of our members comments on their experience advocating for inclusive education in the largest school board in Ontario:
As a parent, we all want the best education for our children. For parents of children with disabilities, this desire becomes even more critical, as access to quality education can greatly impact their development and future opportunities. When my child enrolled in the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), the largest school board in Canada, we expected world-class education and inclusive practices. However, our experience revealed a system plagued by ableism and an outdated approach to disability rights. In this article, I will share my journey as a parent advocating for the rights of my child and shedding light on the need for a more inclusive education system.
A Disappointing Reality:
Upon joining the TDSB, we were shocked to witness how backward and mired in bureaucracy the board appeared. Disability rights, which are fundamental human rights, were not at the forefront of their priorities. Instead, we encountered rigid systems and layers of bureaucracy that hindered the progress of inclusive education. The board’s focus on ableism and lack of comprehensive support for children with disabilities left us feeling disheartened and frustrated.
The Elusive Choice:
One of our primary objectives was to ensure our child had access to their neighbourhood school, learning alongside their peers in the community. However, the lack of options provided by the TDSB was distressing. Despite numerous task forces and committees formed over the years, the promised changes remained elusive. Parents still found themselves facing limited choices, with their children being stigmatized and deemed disruptive. The negative comments and suggestions for modified schedules felt like a constant gaslighting, undermining the potential and rights of our children.
Seeking Change and Empowerment:
Amidst the disappointment, I remained hopeful, seeking out avenues for change and connection with like-minded individuals. During my research, I came across an article by Margarita Isakov, which shed light on the history and ongoing challenges within the TDSB. It emphasized the lack of progress and the need for parents to be informed about the choices available to them. This realization motivated me to connect with organizations like Inclusion Action in Ontario and reach out to the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC).
Telling Our Stories:
Sharing our experiences and stories with SEAC became a powerful tool to let the board know that there were hundreds of families who desired inclusive education within their neighbourhood schools. It was vital to make our voices heard and to show that we, as parents, needed to be empowered in making choices that would benefit our children. Education is a right for every child, and it is our responsibility to advocate for their access to quality education in inclusive environments. If we do not make our voices heard or share our stories with SEACs, the board will continue to believe what they’re doing is ok.
The Road Ahead:
While change may come slowly, every small step counts. As parents, educators, and community members, we must continue to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive education and disability rights. By challenging ableism, breaking down bureaucratic barriers, and fostering collaboration between all stakeholders, we can pave the way for a more inclusive future within the TDSB and beyond.
Conclusion:
As parents, it is our responsibility to advocate for the best possible education for our children, including those with disabilities. The TDSB, as one of the largest school boards in North America, must take the lead in embracing inclusive education and dismantling the ableism that hinders progress. By amplifying our voices, sharing our stories, and demanding change, we can empower ourselves and ensure that our children’s right to learn in regular classrooms within their neighbourhood schools is respected and fulfilled. Together, let us strive for a truly inclusive educational system that prepares all children for a bright and inclusive future.
Toronto’s Pro-Choice School Board: How it hurts Inclusive Education
