19 Teachers Complete Training Course

Minister of Education Dame Jennifer Smith attended a ceremony to recognise 19 teachers who completed a University of Ontario Institute of Technology Special Education course.

Dame Jennifer welcomed Dr. Nick Scarfo and Dr. Jim Greenlaw, Deans of the University of Ontario, Institute of Technology; Commissioner of Education, Mrs. Wendy McDonnell; and University of Ontario Institute of Technology on Island Course Instructor, Ms Donna Edge-Bean and the successful participants and guests.

The Minister said, “Ladies and gentlemen, what better way to start the New Year – than by honouring the 19 teachers who have successfully completed the University of Ontario Institute of Technology’s Special Education Specialist Training Programme.

“As Minister of Education, I want to congratulate you on qualifying. Because of your work – our students will benefit; and – as you know – the Ministry of Education’s sole focus and commitment is to our students.

“Everything that we do – we do with them in mind – from implementing quality educational programmes and initiatives, to ensuring a first class teaching and learning environment.

“Teachers, you play a critical role in ensuring that our efforts are successful and to that end, I am grateful for the partnership that provides this educational opportunity.

“I know that I do not have to tell you that the University of Ontario’s Institute of Technology is a premier educational institution with a leading learning environment.

“Their Special Education Training course has provided the sound foundation those who teach special education need to support our students with special needs.

“Because education the threshold to a better future for all children; every child deserves the best education we can provide. This means continuous training and development on the part of those who provide that education.

“You will be pleased to hear that the Ministry, through the work of our Policy Analyst, Kimberley Mckeown, and after some consultation is almost ready to enter into discussions with parents on our suggested Special Needs Policy.

“You – as properly trained teachers skilled in this discipline are now prepared to bring out the full potential of our students, no matter their special need.

“Tonight I am thrilled to congratulate the 19 successful individuals. Each of you has an important task ahead. I am confident that you will help to fulfill our mandate of ensuring that students receive the proper support, nurturing and quality education that they all deserve.”  

The successful candidates and their represented schools are as follows:

Nevillene Ball-Wachter, Hope Academy, Learning Support

Daveta Bean, Francis Patton Primary, Learning Support

Marion Cann-Smith, Sandys Secondary Middle, Learning Support

Lora Douglas, Dellwood Middle, Functional Skills

Mary Fraser, Berkeley Institute, Mathematics

Julia Gough, Student Services, Hearing Services

Teresa Harper, CedarBridge Academy, Science

Sandra Haugabrook, Substitute Teacher

Shona Henry, Port Royal Primary, Learning Support

Kelly Lyons, Clearwater Middle, Learning Support

Veronica McNeil, Clearwater Middle, Learning Support

Margaret Phillips, Hope Academy, Learning Support

Donna Reid, Dellwood Middle, Learning Support

Tamisha Simons, West Pembroke Primary, Learning Support

Joy Todd, Elliot Primary, Learning Support

Lauren Todd, Berkeley Institute, Learning Support

Freda Trimm, West Pembroke Primary, Learning Support

Sherilyn Wade, Berkeley Institute, Learning Support

Sharon Williams, Whitney Institute Middle, Learning Support