Workbook final

To support better inclusive practices and the implementation of the new policy, a dedicated action plan was

developed. It is a 3-year inclusion initiative (2012/3-2015), including actions and funding around professional

development, funding for accessibility, funding for resource teacher support, funding for district inclusion

facilitators, etc.

Funding of 48 million USD was dedicated to inclusion support services and initiatives over 3 years - 2012 to

2015.

In total, 17 District Inclusion Facilitators were hired to support building systemic capacity in inclusive practices -

2013-2015.

From 2013-2015, 49 High Schools were involved in Triads and Learning Networks to collaborate on inclusive

practices and professional learning.

ACTS ON

UTCOME

MPACT AND EFFECTIVENESS

The policy is still in its early stage of implementation. If the policy is implemented, all students will benefit from

an education system that is inclusive and that respects and embraces diversity. Students with a disability can

expect to be included in regular learning environments alongside their age peers. Students who require a

Personalized Learning Plan will have it developed by a team of committed individuals. Students and parents can

expect to be involved in the development of learning plans that will be based on student strengths, learning

preferences and needs.

Eventually, no segregated classes will exist in New Brunswick’s public schools. In 2013, the province put in place

Policy 322. It specifies how inclusive education will be implemented. It says there should be no segregated, self-

contained classes, or programs specifically for students with learning or behavioural challenges. No date has

been set for when all these classes must close.

RANSFERABILITY

, S

CALABILITY AND

OST

-E

FFICIENCY

While each jurisdiction is unique, New Brunswick’s inclusive education work can serve as a model for other states

looking into strengthening inclusion in public schools as confirmed by the UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-

Sabah Prize jury that recognized the province’s department as an outstanding example of mentoring and professional

learning for inclusive education, and a model of excellence in a public education system that has inspired other

countries. While a policy is critically important for establishing system-wide requirements and expectations, it is not

enough to introduce a policy without a sound plan and resources to effect change. This kind of policy development does

not happen without strong leadership and the belief that inclusion is a key component of a quality education system.

Sometimes, this requires "top down" leadership that is supported locally by educators and administrators. This policy

re-establishes the province’s position in this regard, and raises the bar for other jurisdictions across Canada and around

the world.