As we prepare for the new school year ahead, the New Brunswick Disability Executives’ Network (NBDEN) is ready, willing, and hopeful. NBDEN organizations are ready and prepared to work with students and families to support them in accessing the resources necessary to reach their academic goals and to participate fully in the school community alongside their peers
We are willing to collaborate with families, educators, government partners, and others to identify solutions to challenges students may face in accessing appropriate and timely supports, including the use of assistive technologies, accessible digital content, inclusive physical education and transition planning for post-secondary education. We are willing to work together to remove barriers that prevent students with a disability from exercising their right to learn and to participate in their neighbourhood school, on the playground and on field trips.
We are hopeful for a school year that begins and ends with all students feeling not only included, but a sense of belonging, of being a part of the school community, and of feeling supported in an inclusive environment throughout the school year.
NBDEN looks forward to opportunities for collaboration with students, families, educators, and others to ensure that all New Brunswick students, regardless of their ability or support needs, are offered the opportunity to thrive. The uncertainty of a new school year can be daunting, but by working together to support all children, we can create inclusive environments that welcome, include, and benefit everyone.
To effectively support students, it is essential that educators have timely access to the training, resources, and support they need to succeed -including specialized training in assistive technology and access to adapted sport and recreation equipment, delivered in collaboration with accessibility consultants to empower educators to create truly inclusive classrooms. We know the job of educating students can bring forward challenges, but there are many people in our education system who are rising to the task and turning these challenges into opportunities for growth. Within schools throughout the province, educators, students, and educational support staff are implementing innovative inclusive practices, and we hope to see this momentum and capacity continue to build this school year.
NBDEN extends its sincere gratitude to educators and support staff throughout the province for their dedication, passion, and resilience. Teachers are the cornerstone of New Brunswick’s education system, and their commitment to fostering welcoming, inclusive learning environments is deeply valued.
NBDEN organizations are optimistic about the upcoming school and the opportunity to implement proactive strategies to effect positive change and to ensure students receive the right supports at the right time throughout the school year. We remain committed to working collaboratively with educators, policymakers, and families to create an inclusive and supportive environment for every student in New Brunswick.
The New Brunswick Disability Executive Network is comprised of:
- Ability NB
- Canadian Deafblind Association-New Brunswick Inc.
- Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick
- Easter Seals New Brunswick
- Learning Disabilities Association of New Brunswick
- Muscular Dystrophy Canada
- Neil Squire Society
- Inclusion NB
- New Brunswick Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
- Vision Loss Rehabilitation
