25-Year Champion of Inclusive Education Honoured for Work with Students and Families
In recognition of more than 25 years as a tireless advocate and resource to students who have a disability and their families in Peel Region, and across Ontario, Ann Smith is being awarded the 2008 CACL – Community Living Ontario Inclusive Education Award. This annual award recognizes a group or individual in each of the 13 provinces and territories who is making a positive contribution toward the inclusion of students who have a disability in regular, non-segregated Canadian classrooms.
Smith was nominated for the award by Brampton-Caledon Community Living, an association that provides supports and services to people who have an intellectual disability and their families. “Ann firmly believes that inclusive education is a fundamental human right for all students, including students who have a disability,” says Jim Triantafilou, executive director of the association. “She’s often the lone voice in the wilderness at special education or school board meetings, challenging educators to be inclusive in their policies and practices. She has always demonstrated the strength, courage, and conviction to stand up for inclusive education.”
Smith has served on numerous provincial, regional, and national committees for inclusive education. She is also the Special Education Advisory Committee Representative for Brampton Caledon Community Living. She has become a strong ally and resource for many families who are sometimes unfamiliar with, or intimidated by the education system. She resides in Bolton, Ontario.
“This week is Education Week in Ontario, and while the Ontario government is celebrating the province’s achievements in education, Ann Smith’s work reminds us that our education system must do more to include students who remain marginalized,” says Gordon Kyle, director of social policy at Community Living Ontario. “Students who have an intellectual disability have the right to learn, grow, and develop positive relationships with their peers in regular classrooms.”
After more than 25 years, Smith’s commitment has not waned. “I am very honoured to have been chosen to receive the Inclusive Education Award,” she says. “In accepting it, I would like to acknowledge the many people across the province who are working hard to make inclusive education a reality. It is a struggle and we still have a long way to go, but I strongly believe that inclusive education is the best foundation for the future of all children.”
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Services for Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act - Bill 77
On May 21, 2008 the Minister of Community and Social Services introduced Bill 77, the Services for Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act, 2008, which will replace the current Developmental Services Act that has been in place since 1974.
The government expects the Bill to receive second reading soon and will be referred to the Standing Committee on Social Policy. It is anticipated that the Committee will invite submissions, both written and face-to-face, from the public.
These public hearings will likely take place over the course of the summer.
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