The Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training has responded to the calls of Abaco resident, Deandra Newton for help in getting her disabled daughter back in school.
It was reported earlier this week that Royaltee Newton, who suffers from cerebral palsy, was no longer in school because there was no teacher’s aide and her teacher could no longer assist her to the restroom.
In a statement on the matter the ministry explained its efforts to advance special education. It read, “inclusive education is a priority of the Ministry of Education and Technical and Vocational Training. We have engaged more than 30 special education teachers in the past two years. We have also provided scholarships to 14 teachers who graduated with master’s degrees in special education, some of whom are already providing academic support for students with special needs.”
The statement also addressed the Newtons case specifically saying, “in this particular instance we understand that the child in question was receiving assistance until the resignation of the employee; and subsequently a teacher stepped in to assist. We are advised that when a specific demand could not be accommodated, the parent decided to keep the student home.”
According to the ministry its team has and will continue to reach out to the parent in an effort to bring a resolve to the matter; and in the interim access to the virtual platform will be facilitated to the student.”
It was subsequently announced that Royaltee Newton would be resuming in person learning immediately. Deandra Newton shared her excitement at the news. She said, “now if she had contacted me or if someone had contacted be before all of these interviews went out I would have never went to the media. I would have just canceled and tell the reporter I’m good. I would delete the post and everything. I would have just dropped it but nobody reached out to me. But it’s better late than never, I am sad it had to happen this way but I’m relieve. I cannot wait to walk through that front door and give her the good news because I know she is gonna be excited. I’m excited for her. I cannot wait to see her expression.”
