Ottawa-Carleton District School Board looks to integrate more special needs kids into general classroom

It could mark the biggest change in 25 years, as the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board looks to overhaul its elementary programs, a decision that could integrate more special needs students into the general classroom.

It could mark the biggest change in 25 years, as the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board looks to overhaul its elementary programs, a decision that could integrate more special needs students into the general classroom.

"Instead of having three or four staff to six students in a specialized classroom, you might have one of those students in a general classroom with a full time EA," said Lyra Evans, OCDSB trustee.

The OCDSB launched an elementary program review last month to examine the six programs it offers — English with Core French, Middle French Immersion, Early French Immersion, Alternative, and Ottawa-Carleton Virtual — along with special education and English as a Second Language supports and services. The goal of the review, which isn't slated to be implemented until the fall of 2025, is to determine whether the current program model still serves the needs of the community.

Cathy Varrette's nine-year-old son Nicholas has a learning and intellectual disability along with ADHD and autism. He's currently in a specialized classroom that supports his needs.

"He's actually doing hands-on things that are good for him and his development and he's with his friends," said Varrette.

That wasn't always the case. Varrette says for both Grade 1 and 2, the now Grade 4 student was in a mainstream classroom.

"When we were in mainstream, the system wasn't working," said Varrette. "When our EA was absent, there was nobody to fill in, so my son would stay home, and because resources were stretched, he would be home maybe two days a week, if not three."