Staff
The “Best Buddies” program, which was resurrected at Fort High back in 2011, will receive the “Recognition of Excellence” from the Rainy River District School Board at its regular monthly meeting tonight.
Previously spearheaded by Community Living Fort Frances and District, Fort High students and staff revitalized the program with a strong school-based focus.
“[It] provides opportunities for students who may be marginalized or isolated to find their place among their peers,” noted a report to the board.
“Our program gives people with intellectual and physical disabilities the chance to have social interactions and experiences which most people may take for granted,” it added.
The report also said the program encourages students to embrace differences, and look for ways to promote inclusion and friendship.
During the 2012-13 school year, the “Best Buddies” program hosted several classroom activities, organized a “Pink Day Flash Mob Parade” to support anti-bullying initiatives, and combined classes to kick off its first “Survivor Fun Day.”
The program also participated in dramatic performances, tree and cupcake decorating, and introduced Grade 8 students to the program on “Grade 8 Day.”
The report indicated events such as these promote collaborative and inclusive school cultures.
Also at tonight’s meeting, which gets underway at 7 p.m. at Crossroads School in Devlin, the board will:
•review a letter dated July 18 from the minister of education regarding hiring provisions within Ontario Regulation 274/12;
•hear a presentation from the Crossroads School Accommodation Review Committee, with its recommendation for the future of that school;
•hear an update on the “Summer Literacy Learning” program;
•look at approving Policy 6.70 (Disposal of Surplus Equipment, Furniture, and Books); and
•look at approving the amended Townshend Theatre agreement.
