Learning tools inside the SSSU classroom.
ANGUILLA--The Valley Primary School’s official opening of their Student Support Sensory Unit (SSSU) on Friday morning, January 13, attended by educators, parents and students as well as Minister of Education Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Bren Romney, and Opposition Member Cardigan Connor, was a giant step towards expanding the learning environment for students who learn differently.
Special Education Coordinator Estelle Laurent-Carty, on behalf of the Multi-Professional Support Services Division, welcomed all and said, “Today marks a special day for us and for the Ministry of Education as a whole. It serves as evidence of the advances that are being made to realise the vision of inclusivity where all students are provided with the right opportunities and space in which to thrive in their capacity. These spaces are important to the development of cognitive, sensory and motor skills, the promotion of self-care, self-regulation, empowerment, resilience and ultimately to facilitate recovery.”
Department of Education’s Special Education head Tracelyn Hamilton said that catering to the needs of students with additional needs requires flexibility and a willingness to adjust and to shift away from the traditional methods of teaching and adopt out-of-the-box approaches to keep the students engaged and motivated. She said, “Today we are here to witness one such major change in keeping with the department’s mission to provide quality education services.”
A team of special educators travelled to St. Maarten to observe several similar centres and confirm some of the necessary resources needed to start a SSSU centre in Anguilla. Hamilton said that much of what was required was financially viable due to the benevolent gift of US $10,000 donated by Ian and Liz Mossman. Although not physically present, she thanked them for their timely gift which has enabled the opening of the department’s first SSSU.
Additional short congratulatory remarks were offered by Minister Kentish-Rogers, Opposition Member Connor and CEO Romney prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony and opening of the SSSU doors to showcase the educational aides and facilities.
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/anguilla-education-ministry-expanding-special-education-learning-environment
