Tuition Support Program to Continue

Education Minister Karen Casey wants to assure concerned parents that a tuition support program for students with special needs is not facing imminent cancellation.

The report of the Minister's Review of Services for Students with Special Needs recommended that the Tuition Support Program end by June 30, 2010.

The minister has not accepted that recommendation.

"I want to ease the minds of parents of students with special needs who currently use the program or may want to in the immediate future," Ms. Casey said.

"In the short term, we are not prepared to take away the opportunity for those who can benefit from the program. My commitment will be to continue the program until we are able to provide, in our public schools, one that is equal to it or better."

The Tuition Support Program will also undergo a thorough review, Ms. Casey said. In addition, the Department of Education plans to keep the program capped at three years.

The special needs report made 27 recommendations on a wide range of issues affecting students with special needs, including professional development and training of teachers, programs and services, and resources.

The minister's full response to the report is expected before Christmas.

In the 2007-08 school year, 128 students are enrolled in the program. Also 51 families are receiving an income supplement under the program. The program will cost $1.2 million this school year.

The program gives eligible students assistance to attend a designated private special education school. Students with attention deficit disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder or learning disabilities can apply for tuition support.

The Minister's Review of Services for Students with Special Needs report was prepared by a blue-ribbon panel that held public hearings around the province. It's 27 recommendations were delivered to the minister in July 2007.