District • Peel School Board '-""' AGENDA
Special Education Advisory Committee
Tuesday, September 20, 2016 7:00p.m.
Brampton Room
PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting
AGENDA Brampton Room Tuesday, September 20, 2016 7:00p.m.
OPEN SESSION
1. Call to Order 1.1 Approval of Agenda 1.2 Special Presentation 1.2.1 Starting Point 2016- video ''Words of Wisdom"
2. Declaration of Conflict of Interest
3. Minutes 3.1 Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting June 14, 2016
4. Chair's Request for Written Questions from Committee Members
5. Notices of Motion and Petitions
6. Delegations
7. Ministry and Board Policy Review 7.1 Programs and Services for Students with ASD- Letter from Minister of Education, Mitzie Hunter to Ontario School Board Chairs 7.2 Peel District School Board Plan for Student Success 2016-2021
8. Program Review
9. Reports from Officials and Staff/Department Work Plan Review 9.1 Superintendent's Report- oral 9.2 Updated SEAC Member List 9.3 SEAC Annual Calendar Draft- Agenda & Goals 9.4 Special Education Department Goals and Projects 2016-2017
10. Communications - for Action or Receipt 10.1 Letter from Janet McDougald, Peel District School Board Chair to Minister Michael Coteau, Minister Mitzie Hunter Re: Ontario Autism Program and response from Minister Michael Coteau and Minister Mitzie Hunter to Janet McDougald 11. Response of Administration to Former Questions
12. Reports from Representatives on Councils/Associations
13. Questions asked of and by Committee Members
14. Public Question Period
15. Adjournment
2 1 June 14, 2016 3.1 Special Education Advisory Committee:lf
PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Minutes of a meeting of the Special Education Advisory Committee of the Peel District School Board, held in the Brampton Room, the H. J. A. Brown Education Centre, 5650 Hurontario Street, Mississauga, Ontario on Tuesday, June 14, 2016 at 19:00 hours.
Members present:
Shelley Foster, VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children, Vice-Chair Nancy Bratkovic, Canadian Mental Health Association, Peel Branch Barbara Cyr, Association for Bright Children, Peel Chapter David Green, Trustee Jennifer Knight, Easter Seals Ontario Sue Lawton, Trustee Nancy Leaton, Autism Ontario, Peel Chapter Carol Ogilvie, Learning Disabilities Association of Peel Region Carol Oitment, Tourette Syndrome Association of Ontario Dorothy Peddie, FASworld Canada, Peel Chapter (19: 10) Harkirat Singh, Trustee Ann Smith, Brampton-Caledon Community Living Mary Wright, Peel Caring Network for Challenged Kids
Absent: (apologies received marked*)
Barbara Byers, Fragile X Research Foundation of Canada, Chair* Wes McDonald, VIEWS for the Visually Impaired
Administration:
Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services (Executive Member) Pertia Minott, Superintendent of Education (Executive Backup Member) Scott Moreash, Associate Director of Instructional Support Services
Lorelei Fernandes, Board Reporter
1. Approval of Agenda
In the absence of the Chair, Vice-Chair Foster chaired the meeting.
SE-45, moved by Sue Lawton, that the agenda be approved.
...... carried
2. Conflict of Interest
There were no declarations of conflict of interest. 2 June 14, 2016 Special Education Advisory Committee: If
3. Minutes ofthe Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting, May 17, 2016
Referring to Item 4, Links to Literacy, a member stated that her question and the response, with regard to how the program was funded, are not included in the Minutes. The administration provided clarifying information on costs and implementation of the Links to Literacy program. A trustee reminded members about meeting protocol and indicated that this agenda item should relate only to requests for amendments or clarification to the minutes, as against providing further explanation on items in previous minutes.
Arising from Item 8 of the Minutes, Public Question Period, a member remarked that as Barbara Byers was taken aback by Hilary Campbell's comments, she could not fully respond. The member stated that, in her opinion, this does not align with the values of the Peel District School Board.
SE-46, moved by Ann Smith, that the Minutes of the Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting, held May 17, 2016, be approved.
...... carried
4. Ontario's Renewed Mathematics Strategy
Superintendent of Special Education Support Services, Ted Byers, drew attention to the Ministry of Education's memorandum dated April 8, 2016, included in the report, with regard to increasing mathematics achievement across the province. He recalled his brief overview of Ontario's Renewed Mathematics Strategy provided at the last SEAC meeting and he explained how the funding will be allocated to elementary and secondary panels. Superintendent Byers advised that the Ministry has identified that Tier 1 schools will receive the highest level of support and Tier 2 schools will receive second level of support. Peel DSB has three schools in Tier 1 and 14 schools in Tier 2. He stated that keeping in mind identified and non-identified special education students, the Board will determine how the funds will be allocated to these 17 schools. Ted Byers shared information on upcoming training for both elementary and secondary panels, which will be provided to Special Education Resource Teachers (SERT), special education program teachers, and ISSP teachers.
SE-47, moved by Harkirat Singh, that the report re Ontario' Renewed Mathematics Strategy, be received.
...... carried
5. Programs and Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Superintendent Byers recalled that at the SEAC meeting in April 2016, he had reported on the Ontario Autism Program created by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services (MCYS), which will provide support to families who have children with autism. He spoke about Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) based on principles of learning, and Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) which is application of ABA principles in an intensive setting. 3 June 14, 2016 Special Education Advisory Committee: If
5. Programs and Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (Continued)
Outlining the program changes which began as of April 1, 2016, Superintendent Byers spoke of the impact of these changes in Peel and noted that the goal is to reduce the waitlist. Providing clarifying information, he described the changes: children under age 5 who currently receive IBI service will continue to receive service until they turn 5 and will then be aged out of the program; children under age 5 currently on the waitlist will likely receive service sooner and service providers are keeping track of waitlists; children over the age of 5 who are currently receiving IBI service will be demitted from IBI in stages over a period of 18 months; children over the age of 5 who are on the waitlist and have not received IBI service to date will be removed from the waitlist and those families will receive one-time funding of$ 8,000 to acquire immediate service. Superintendent Byers stated that Peel DSB is committed to working with partners to facilitate transitioning of students over the next 18 months. On a member's request, Superintendent Byers agreed to provide a written report.
SE-48, moved by Nancy Leaton, that the oral report re Programs and Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), be received.
...... carried
6. Superintendent's Report
Stating that he has been in the position of Superintendent of Special Education Support Services since last Fall, Ted Byers commented that the end of the school year is a time for reflection on work done. Reviewing his initial goals for working with SEAC, he referred to his letter of November 9, 2015 to SEAC member associations, acknowledging and valuing the role of SEAC, and he expressed gratitude for their work in supporting parents and children. He reiterated his intention to engage with SEAC members in meaningful discussions, including on the Special Education Plan. Superintendent Byers recalled his invitation for member associations to meet with him individually as well as to present information about their respective associations at SEAC meetings, and he extended that invitation to the next year. He thanked Fragile X Foundation, Easter Seals Ontario, and Learning Disabilities Association of Peel Region for the presentations made over this school year. Superintendent Byers spoke of his efforts to strengthen the joint work of Special Education with various departments, including Curriculum and Instruction, Early Years, Alternative Programs, and Leadership Development Support Services, to develop programs such as Links to Literacy, and undertake other initiatives including: reviewing processes, such as the external study on Teaching Assistants to ensure the allocation process is maximized; engaging with Professional Student Services Personnel (PSSP) staff; establishing system focus on achievement of special education students.
Superintendent Byers thanked the Board for the recently approved budget, and trustees' commitment to support special education students and programs. He provided details on increased allocation of special education staff and student success stories. He spoke of the role of Capacity Builders and stated that a report on the revised role will be brought to SEAC in the next school year. With regard to a member's request for details of proposed additional hiring and query as to whether the increase in staffing has any correlation with the Ministry's new initiative for special needs, Ted Byers explained the timeline and process for hiring and he advised that a report can be brought in the Fall. 4 June 14, 2016 Special Education Advisory Committee:If
6. Superintendent's Report {Continued)
Ted Byers announced that Special Education Coordinator, Gillian Kajganich, has been promoted to Vice-Principal of Glenforest Secondary School effective September 1, 2016. He thanked her for her work over the past four years and extended best wishes to her in her new role.
SE-49, moved by Dorothy Peddie, that the Superintendent's Report (oral), be received .
...... carried
7. Special Education Plan 2016-2017
Superintendent Byers stated that the 2016-2017 Special Education Plan has been posted on the Peel DSB website. A member commented that the Special Education Plan included in the agenda, has no Table of Contents, there are some editorial and formatting issues, and duplication of information. She added that the document does not appear to follow the York Region DSB's template as suggested earlier. Superintendent Byers explained that the Special Education Plan posted on the website is organized and has a Table of Contents. He added that, as a Ministry requirement, the goal is to post the entire plan on the website and to have the report submitted to the Ministry in digital format by way of a link. Another member stated that criteria for different exceptionalities is unclear and information on CCAT, GRS and risk criteria is missing from the document. Ted Byers confirmed that information in Section C, Service Delivery Model by Exceptionality, is divided by exceptionality. A member noted that apart from some formatting issues the Special Education Plan document is a good source of information. Noting that the document is a work in progress she thanked SEAC members and special education staff for their hard work and input. Discussion ensued on reporting and finalizing of the document for submission to the Ministry by the deadline of end July. Superintendent Byers invited comments and input to finalize the Special Education Plan over the next two weeks.
A member indicated her disagreement with the ways in which SEAC is consulted and advised about staff development, as described in the report. Superintendent Byers provided clarifying information on how issues are tracked and raised by way of monthly updates, feedback is invited on drafts from SEAC members at committee meetings, and input is accepted on SEAC agendas. He expressed willingness to consider ways to strengthen SEAC's involvement. A member recalled the previous SEAC meeting at which Superintendent Byers provided the website link, and encouraged involvement of SEAC members, requesting them to contact special education staff or himself with input and suggestions on the Special Education Plan. Another member recollected that SEAC members were offered an opportunity at the beginning of the year to form a sub-committee and a few members had volunteered, however the sub-committee was not formed. She offered to participate in discussions for input.
SE- 50, moved by Ann Smith, that the report re Special Education Plan 2016-2017, be received.
...... carried 5 June 14, 2016 Special Education Advisory Committee: If
8. Special Education Department Goals and Projects 2016-2017
Ted Byers reviewed the report and highlighted the goals as, increased achievement for students receiving special education supports, building capacity of staff to support mental health and well-being of all students, capacity building of staff, and increase in system alignment to Ministry and Board services. He advised that there are 13 projects and he invited comments on the nature of the goals outlined in the report. Vice-Chair Foster suggested that members review the report and bring back comments in the new school year.
SE- 51, moved by Sue Lawton, that the report re Special Education Goals and Projects 2016-2017, be received.
...... carried
9. Minister's Advisory Council on Special Education (MACSE)
Superintendent Byers reported that the Minister's Advisory Council on Special Education (MACSE) had invited input on issues related to special education programs. The report contains suggestions provided by Peel DSB on successful practices, challenges/issues, and possible solutions/future directions. Chief Social Worker, Jim Van Buskirk, advised that he represents the school boards' social workers on MACSE, which includes several professional groups including teachers. He encouraged feedback from members on the report.
SE- 52, moved by Ann Smith, that the report re Minister's Advisory Council on Special Education (MACSE), be received.
...... carried
10. Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting Schedule 2016-2017
A member inquired about topics at the September and October 2016 meetings. She advised that Alison Morse, Provincial Coordinator for Special Education, is willing to assist with training resources for SEAC members in Fa112016, and expressed her interest in inviting Alison Morse for training and team building on relationships and processes. Superintendent Byers noted the suggestion.
SE- 53, moved by Jennifer Knight, that the report re Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting Schedule 2016-2017, be received.
...... carried 6 June 14, 2016 Special Education Advisory Committee: If
11. Letter to The Honourable Tracy MacCharles from SEAC Chair, District School Board of Niagara
SE- 54, moved by David Green, that the Letter to The Honourable Tracy MacCharles from SEAC Chair, District School Board of Niagara, be received.
...... carried
12. Reports from Representatives and Councils
Barbara Cyr, SEAC's representative on the Parent Involvement Committee (PIC), reported on an event held on May 19, 2016, at which Carol Ogilvie and a few trustees were also present. She advised that 125 school council members attended and she expressed hope that more SEAC members will be involved in the event next year.
13. Question Period
Carol Ogilvie circulated information and brochures on Learning Disabilities Association of Peel Region's programs and services, summer camps, Kidz Konnect and Youth Konnect, and 2016 Adult Support Groups.
Trustee Lawton provided information on a baseball tournament, Caledon Challenger Baseball Day, a free event that everyone can attend. Challenger Baseball is a program that provides an opportunity for children with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the full benefits of participation in baseball at a level structured to their abilities. The information flyer will be circulated to SEAC members.
Vice-Chair Foster thanked the SEAC members for their voluntary participation in SEAC meetings. She acknowledged the work done by Gillian Kajganich and wished her well in her new position. She expressed appreciation for the wisdom, knowledge and input of staff and trustees and for keeping SEAC updated on Board matters.
14. Adjournment
SE-55, moved by Mary Wright, that the meeting adjourn (20:20 hours).
carried
...... Chair ...... Secretary
7
Peel District School Board 7.1 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
Programs and Services for Students with ASD
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services 8 9
Ministry of Education Ministere de !'Education
Minister Min Istre
Mowat Block Edifice Mowat Queen's Park Queen's Park ~ Toronto ON M7A 1L2 Toronto ON M7A 1L2 Ontario
Memorandum To: School Board Chairs
From: The Honourable Mitzie Hunter Minister Date: June 28, 2016
Subject: Transition to the Ontario Autism Program - New Funding to Support School Boards
I am pleased to be writing to you today in my new role as Minister of Education.
Building on our strong foundation, we will continue to ensure our publicly funded education system is equitable, and that our schools are inclusive and accepting places where all children are successful and supported- including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
An important part of ensuring equity is supporting students through transition periods, which we know pose challenges to all students.
As you know, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Children and Youth Services have been working together over many years to provide supportive environments for students with ASD and their families. As changes in autism services are implemented, school boards will continue to support children with ASD through the transition.
To help support them, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services is providing additional funding to help expand services for children with ASD. This will provide families with more flexible and individualized services at varying levels of intensity based on their children's specific needs. You can find more information on the changes made by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services from their announcement this morning at: www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/news/index.aspx.
The Ministry of Education is also providing additional funding to support the education sector. All 72 school boards will receive new, one-time funding through the transition period. School boards will also be eligible to apply for additional funding to provide after school skills development programs for children.
. .. /2 10
-2-
These changes will help create a continuum of behavioural supports based on the individual needs of children and youth. More detailed information has been shared with your directors of education by Nancy Matthews, Deputy Minister of Education.
These efforts support our government's plan to transform children's autism services and to work across government to improve supports for Ontarians with autism throughout their lives.
Thank you for your ongoing collaboration. With your continued support, we can help all students reach their full potential.
Sincerely,
Mitzie Hunter, MBA Minister c: Ontario Public School Boards' Association
Ontario Catholic School Trustees' Association
Association franco-ontarienne des conseils scolaires catholiques
Association des conseils scolaires des eccles publiques de !'Ontario
Council of Ontario Directors of Education
11
PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 7.2 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
Peel District School Board Plan for Student Success 2016-2021
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Background:
Over the last year board staff have been working to revise our Report Card for Student Success-the strategic plan of the Peel District School Board. The current plan is dated 2014- 2017.
This has been a significant revision, not just an updating of projects. In the Systemness survey staff indicated that there are too many goals, that the goals are not sufficiently clear, and that we try to do too much. This feedback, and our strong focus on System ness was core in the revision of the goals.
In working with Dr. Michael Fullan and his team, we often referenced his book "Coherence". In it, the author highlights the key need to have "focused direction in the face of competing and complex demands internally and externally. Districts that develop focused direction are purpose driven, select a small number of ambitious goals linked to impact, (and) are able to develop clarity of strategy for achieving the goals".
That has been our work-a small number of ambitious goals with defined projects to achieve those goals. To make sure the goals reflected the needs of the system, was an extensive consultation and development process.
The result of the consultation was very strong support for the new goal areas - in fact 82 per cent responded that the goals accurately reflect our focus on student success. The four goal areas are:
Goal: High Expectations for Achievement
Goal: Parent, Community and Staff Engagement
Goal: Equity and Inclusion
Goal: Safe, Positive, Healthy Climate/Well Being 12
Part of the feedback received was that the goal areas require greater clarity. The current Report Card for Student Success had lengthy descriptors for each goal area . These were not well known. The new plan has short, direct goal descriptors that are clear, aspirational and provide greater connection to the projects.
The language responds to the system request for more common terms and connections. It reflects the language used by the Ministry of Education in their goals, our language in the board's Mission, Vision, Values and in our School Success Plan. In furthering this alignment, we are now re-titling RCSS to the Peel District School Board Plan for Student Success. We will also have a new graphic for the goals.
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services 13 14
15
Peel District School Board 9.2 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
Updated Special Education Advisory Committee Member List
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services 16 SPECIAL EDUCATION JloVISORY COMMITTEE
Revised August 11,2016
*Trustees: David Green Tel: 905·495·4579 e-mail: [email protected] Sue Lawton Tel: 905·625·8084 e-mail: [email protected] Harkirat Singh Tel: 416·797·6718 e-mail: harkirat.singh @peelsb.com
Executive Ted Byers Tel: 905·890·1010 ext. 2346 e-mail: [email protected] Members: Pertia Minott Tel: 905·366·8800 ext.1305 e-mail: pertia.minott@ peelsb.com
Association for Bright Children, Peel Chapter FASworld Canada- Peel Chapter Barbara Cyr Dorothy Peddie 355 MacDonald St. 93 Barleyfield Road Inglewood, ON L7C 1G7 Bramalea, ON L6R 2J4 Tel: 905·838·5239 cell: 647·629·6420 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected]
Autism Ontario Peel Chapter Fragile X Research Foundation of Canada Nancy Leaton Barbara Byers 46 Salem Court 167 Queen Street West Brampton, ON L6V 4J8 Brampton, ON L6Y 1M5 cell: 647·921·1724 Tel: 905·453·0078 Fax: 905·453·0095 e-mail: nleaton@ rogers.com e-mail: [email protected]
Brampton Caledon Community Living Learning Disabilities Association of Peel Region Ann Smith Carol Ogilvie 52 Wright Crescent 3 Dina Court Bolton, ON L7E 3X5 Brampton, ON L6Y 4X6 Tel: 1·905·951.0071 Tel: 905·272·4100 e-mail: annsmith1 @sympatico.ca e-mail: [email protected]
*Canadian Mental Health Association/Peel Branch Nancy Bratkovic VOICE for Hearing Impaired Children 7700 Hurontario Street Shelley Foster Suite 314 1484 Torrington Drive, Unit 58 Brampton, Ontario Mississauga, ON LSV 1Y2 L6Y 4M3 Tel: 905·812·7644 (905) 451·1718 e-mail: voiceshelley@ gmail.com e-mail: [email protected] Tourette Syndrome Association of Ontario Easter Seals Ontario Carol Oitment Jennifer Knight 6520 Corfu Ad, Unit 48 45 Watson Crescent Mississauga, ON LSN 3B4 Brampton, ON L6W 1E5 Tel: 905·858·3459 Tel: 905·455·3275 e-mail: [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] VIEWS for the Visually Impaired Peel Caring Network for Challenged Kids Wes McDonald Mary Wright 5 Marchmount Cres. 3909 Zenith Court Brampton, ON L6S 2T2 Mississauga, ON L5N 7H7 Tel: 416·294·6397 Tel: 905·824·4455 e-mail: wesmcdonald23@ gmail.com e-mail: [email protected] SPECIAL EDUCATION N>VISORV COMMITTEE
ALTERNATE MEMBERS:
Association for Bright Children, Peel Chapter Learning Disabilities Association of Peel Region Karen Kennedy Thomas Corbett 1292 Sherwood Mills Blvd., Unit 55 22 Waterbury Street Mississauga, ON Bolton, ON L7E 1X2 L5V 2GB Tel: 416-91 0-6186 e-mail: [email protected] email: [email protected]
Autism Ontario Peel Chapter Peel Caring Network for Challenged Kids Fauzia Reza Abeer Zuberi 1206-325 Webb Dr., 2602 lnnisfill Road Mlssissauga, ON Mississauga, ON L5B3Z9 L5M 4H9 e-mail: rezafauzia@ qmail.com Tel: 647-338-2324 e-mail: abeerrehan@ gmail.com *Canadian Mental Health Association Namarata Balsara 7700 Hurontarto Street Suite 314 Brampton, ON L6Y 4M3 Email: [email protected]
*Update August 11, 2016
I~ PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 9.3 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
SEAC Annual Calendar Draft- Agenda & Goals
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services Peel District2§chool Board
Special Education Advisory Committee ANNUAL CALENDAR for SEAC 2016 - 2017 DRAFT
Month Activities
September 20th • SEAC annual calendar (current year): discuss possible changes, add specifics for the year, and finalize; presentations by member associations, community partners and board staff • Review proposed Terms of Reference for SEAC • October 19th • Develop process for review 2016 - 17 Special Education Report • Recognition of October as Learning Disabilities Month November 15th • Ministry and Board Policy Review: EQAO, OSSL T Results • IEP Update • October Report Data December 19th • Annual selection of Chair and Vice-Chair January 17th • Financial Update
February 21st
March 27th
April 19th • SEAC Meeting Schedule for 2017-2018 May 16th • Budget Development and Grants for 2017-2018 • Special Education Report - Draft • Review System Goals • Receive October Report for current year: receive report on numbers of exceptional students, placements
June 13th • Develop draft SEAC annual calendar for next year • Department Plan Review: Setting priorities for next year
21
Peel District School Board 9.4 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
Special Education Department Goals and Projects 2016 - 2017
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Background: The attached chart of Special Education Department Goals and Projects was discussed and received by SEAC on June 14, 2016.
At this meeting, which begins the 2016-17 school year, SEAC is invited to identify priorities among the projects for reports to SEAC at upcoming meetings. These can be added to an updated SEAC Annual Calendar.
In addition, staff will provide a brief oral overview to add details for some projects, including: • Goals for the EMPOWER program in Communications classrooms • The ISSP Institute, as part of professional development for Special Education staff • Professional development for staff in 00/ASD and DDSN classes
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services 22 23
Peel District School Board Plan for Student Success
System Projects Special Education Department
1. Implement the Board,s Mental Health Strategy (with Leadership Development and School Support Services)
2. Conduct a review of Special Education supports and implement its recommendations. • • ' _. • 7 ... ::j,.> - ' • • • ! ' • • • ~;/ J'J ' • • I - o ' ~ SPECIAL'EDUCATION DEPARtMENT GOALS AND PROJECTS 2016-2017 · ~ ..: ~ ;;c • ... • • • • •
GOAL #1: Increase achievement for students who access Special Education supports
• Develop system focus on achievement in Spec Ed, specifically a Theory of Action: o If we learn about students' profiles deeply and if we provide them with the supports and resources that are available, then we should be able to positively impact on the performance of students who access Special Education supports and/or services. • Review the needs of students in kindergarten and develop a model to ensure early intervention to meet student needs. • Analyse factors that contribute to effective teacher implementation of the EMPOWER and Language! Live reading programs and develop a pian to increase system adoption of these factors. • As coordinated by the Steering Committee for Literacy in the Early Years, implement early literacy programs such as Links to Literacy as part of a tiered intervention to support some students. Continue to work within the Early Literacy Implementation committee, developing common assessment tools, and decision support documents to assist in differentiating program support.
GOAL #2: Build capacity of staff to support the mental health and well-being of all students including those who access Special Education Supports and/or Services. • Execute the implementation plans for the five main mental health priority groups • Establish an appropriate response plan to newcomers to PDSB.
GOAL #3: Build capacity of all staff to support students who access Special Education Supports and/or Services. • Provide PRIME training for Special Education staff to support the implementation of the Renewed Math Strategy. • Align Teaching Assistant professional development to include module completion • Implement workshops for early years staff regarding communication development. • Provide focused Professional Development for teachers new to DD/ASD and DDSN classes. • Increase the understanding of teachers in the role and uses of Assistive Technology to meet the needs of students. Examples include: Secondary Regional Communication program pilot project with Chromebooks; Google Read and Write and Assistive Technology; Creation of videos and on-line modules for system wide use demonstrating use of Assistive Technology.
GOAL #4: Increase system alignment to Ministry and Board Services. • PPM 8: Review, revise and develop tools for early identification of learning disabilities and plan implementation within system. • PPM 156: Determine secondary students who have service coordination through CLM and BCCL in order to monitor transition planning process
25
PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 10.1 Special Education Advisory Committee September 20, 2016
Letter to Minister Michael Coteau and Minister Mitzie Hunter
Recommendation:
It is recommended that this report be received.
Submitted by: Ted Byers, Superintendent of Special Education Support Services 26 27 District . •...... _, Peel School Board JUN 2 7 2016
5650 Hurontarlo Street Mlsslssauga, ON, Canada LSR 1C6 t 905.890.1010 1.800.668.1146 f 905.890.6747 www.peelso:hools.org
June 22, 2016
The Honourable Michael Coteau Minister of Children and Youth Services Mowat Block, Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1 L2
The Honourable Mitzie Hunter Minister of Education Mowat Block, Queen's Park Toronto, ON M7A 1L2
Dear Minister Coteau and Minister Hunter:
First of all, on behalf of the Peel District School Board, let me congratulate you on your new roles as Minister of Child and Youth Services and Minister of Education. These portfolios are a significant responsibility, and we look forward to working with you as we inspire success, confidence and hope in each student we serve.
Holding true to this commitment, we write to provide input and to seek clarification on the provincial government's implementation of the Ontario Autism Program. Since the program's announcement in April2016, Peel board staff have been reviewing the details of the program with our partners from the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board's and ErinoakKids, our community provider of IBI for children with autism, to determine the program's impact on Peel students.
The Board appreciates the focus of the Ontario Autism Program to provide IBI support for children aged 2 to 4 years; however, we respectfully request that the Ministry of Children and Youth Services grandparent those children who are currently on the waitlist for this service. In the alternative, we would submit that $8,000 for those children who will age-out prior to receiving IBI service is insufficient and suggest that this be increased to a more realistic amount.
.. ./2
Trustees Oirector of Education and Secretary Janet McDougald, Chair David Green Tony Pontes Suzanne Nurse, Vlce·Chalr Sue Lawton Carrie Andrsws Brad MacDonald ·Associate Director, Instructional Support Servi ces Stan Cameron Kathy McDonald Scott Moreash • Robert Crocker Harklrat Singh Nokha Dakroub Rick Williams Associate Director, Operational Support Services Jaspal Gill
ISO 9001 CEAfCFIED • CU'51'001Jol SEAVIC£5 ANO ~AIIHEN"""'CE SEAVICES ' 2~
;{'•(1~1 ' l\ i 4t l• ·.~ \ i -' ~ ~~, ( f .. .
As we anticipate increases in the numbers of students with autism who will be entering our school system without having received IBI, we seek to understand: • if there will be increased funding for school boards for staff to be able to continue to offer these services to students • what supports will be available to school boards from the ministries so that we can continue to support students with autism, especially when they first arrive in kindergarten • how we respond to parents/guardians who seek clarification about what types of supports-ABA, IBI or both-their children will receive at school
We ask that both ministries provide clarification prior to the start of the 2016-17 school year so that we are able to respond to parent inquiries in a timely and factual manner, and so that our staff continue to have the information and access to the supports they need to meet the needs of students with autism and their families. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely, ~-cfJ Janet McDougald Chair Peel District School Board
c. Peel District School Board Trustees Ontario School Board Chairs Ontario Special Education Advisory Committee Chairs Peel MPP's
R~gular Meeting of the Board August 31, 2016 29 6.6
Ministry of Children Ministere des Services and Youth Services a l'enfance eta Ia jeunesse Minister's Office Bureau du minlstre 56 Wellesley Street West 56, rue Wellesley Ouest 14th Floor 14" etage ~ Toronto ON M5S 283 Toronto (Ontario) M5S 253 Ontario Tel.: 416 212·7432 Tel.: 416 212-7432 Fax: 416 212-7431 Telec.: 416 212-7431
CSS5111 C-2016-1649 AUG 05 2016 AUG 2 2 2016 Ms. Janet McDougald Chair Peel District School Board 5650 Hurontario Street Mississauga, Ontario L5R 1C6
Dear Ms. McDougald:
Thank you for your kind words congratulating me on my appointment as Minister of Children and Youth Services.
I am excited to lead this ministry which, as you know, is dedicated to improving the lives of Ontario's vulnerable children and youth, and to advocating on behalf of the young people in this province. As Minister, I am committed to working hard to make sure that children and youth are safe, supported and have every opportunity to reach their potential.
The new Ontario Autism Program, announced in March, will make it easier for families to access services for their children by reducing wait times, providing more flexible services at a level of intensity that meets each child's individual needs and increasing the number of treatment spaces available to serve more children and youth and accommodate the rising prevalence of autism diagnoses.
We have heard from the autism community that as a government, we needed to make changes in order to better support children and families. In response, we have made improvements to our plan, while providing the following additional supports to those families most affected by the transition to the new program:
1. We are cutting the implementation time in half. The implementation of the new Ontario Autism Program will now begin in June 2017.
2. We are providing additional direct funding to families with children over five who are transitioning from the Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) waitlist and were originally offered $8,000 to purchase supports. Successive payments will be provided in $1 0,000 installments to purchase services based on their child's needs. This amount will be sufficient to support even the most intensive level of therapy for approximately 10 weeks.
.../cont'd 3f2-
Alternatively, families can also choose to have their child receive immediate and continuous Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services. Families will be eligible to receive continuous direct funding supports or ABA service until their child is able to enter the new program seamlessly.
3. We will provide families with greater access to information and one-on-one supports. We've set up a toll-free number at 1-888-284-8340 that families can call for general information and to be connected with their nearest ministry regional office cost-free and quickly.
4. We are delivering improved access to diagnostic assessments and services. This will help families get an autism diagnosis earlier so that their children can get the treatment they need sooner.
5. We are working with the Ministry of Education to strengthen in-school supports, including the Connections Program, to help students transition into, and continue in, full-time school.
During the transition to the new program, children who are five years and older who are currently receiving IBI won't be removed from services. They will continue with their current service plans until their next regular clinical progress assessments. At that time, service providers will work with-the child's family to develop an individualized transition plan for a gradual transition to ABA services.
Families affected by these changes, or who have questions about the new Ontario Autism Program, can visit www.ontario.ca/autism or call 1-888-284-8340.
I note that you have also addressed your letter to the Honourable Mitzie Hunter, Minister of Education. Minister Hunter's letter to school boards' chairs dated June 28, 2016, provides further information on the additional funding and support available to school boards to support children through the transition period to the Ontario Autism Program.
More detailed information about the new Ontario Autism Program is available on the ministry's website at www.ontario.ca/autism. If you have further questions or concerns about specific services in your community, please contact Greg Ladyka, Program Supervisor, at 905-952-1907 or, toll-free, at 1-877-669-6658, extension 1907.
Again, thank you for writing and for your good wishes and support.
,j Michael Coteau Minister c: The Honourable Mitzie Hunter 31
Ministry of Education Ministere de !'Education Minister Ministre
Mowat Block Edifice Mowat Queen's Park Queen's Park Toronto ON M7 A 1l2 Toronto ON M7A 1l2
August 29, 2016
Ms. Janet McDougald Chair Peel District School Board 5650 Hurontario Street Mississauga ON L5R 1C6 ~
~~e; I Dear Ms. McDo~.
Thank you for your letter where you expressed your concerns about the impact of the new Ontario Autism Program (OAP) on school boards. As Minister of Education, I am pleased to respond.
Supporting students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a top priority for the Ministry of Education (EDU). Our government announced changes to autism services that will create a continuum of behavioural supports that are flexible, and based on the individual needs of children and youth -outlined in Ministry of Children and Youth Services' (MCYS) March 29, 2016, announcement "Ontario Investing $333 Million to Improve Autism Services" and MCYS' announcement on June 28, 2016, "Ontario Providing More Supports For Children With Autism".
On June 28, 2016, MCYS and EDU jointly announced further changes to community autism services and an investment of $200 million to support the transition to the Ontario Autism Program. Core elements of the changes and investment introduced by MCYS include:
• Implementation of the OAP beginning in June 2017, a year earlier than initially announced • An increased access to early diagnosis pilots • More direct funding for children being removed from the Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI) waitlist. For families that have children who have been removed from the (IBI) waitlist, Ontario is providing a choice of more direct funding or access to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) services by publicly funded providers. This will provide access to continuous service until the implementation of the OAP begins in June 2017. This funding will be provided directly to parents to purchase behavioural services and supports based on the needs of their children. Successive payments of $10,000 will ~e made available for these families until their child enters the new program in 2017. ... /2 32
- 2 -
• Children older than 5 years of age will no longer be removed from 181 services, and • Increased availability of family support coordinators through the Potential Programme. This position will offer one-on-one supports to families whose children are either transitioning from the 181 waitlist or from 181 service.
Further details of MCYS' announcement can be found at https ://news. ontario. ca/mcys/en/20 16/06/strengthening-the-ontario-autism-program. html
Our minsitry announced $39 million in new funding over the next two school years to help school boards meet an increased demand for Connections for Students and in school supports. All school boards will receive a base amount of $61,632, and a per pupil amount based on average daily enrolment in each of the next two school years (2016/17 and 2017/18). School boards will also be eligible for additional per pupil funding in the amount of $9,750, to support Connections for Students transition teams. As part of this investment school boards will be also eligible to apply for funding to support new and/or existing after school programs that enhance skills for students with ASD. These programs may focus on different areas such as social and communications skills development, behavior management, etc.
Further details on our new funding announcement can be found at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/policvtunding/memos/june2016/transition autism.pdf. Additional information was shared with Directors of Education in a memo from Deputy Minister Nancy Matthews, on June 28, 2016. The details on spending parameters of new funding are being finalized and will be communicated to school boards.
Thank you for taking the time to write. I will gladly share your concerns and comments with my colleagues at MCYS. We are committed to strengthening capacity of school boards to support students with ASD so they can reach their full potential.
Sincerely,
Mitzie Hunter, MBA Minister