Support specialized programs & schools made possible by optional attendance!

There are real equity issues that need to be dealt with. However, the answer is not to cancel what it working. Mediocrity should not be the new norm.

The draft report got updated today. But the only question now is will the Optional attendance only phase out regular program students or all students who don't live in the specialized school neighbourhood?

One of my children went to ESA so I will only speak about that. Once upon a time we had high schools with art programs. They were taught by teachers who were passionate about teaching the arts. Then the Board CUT those positions (music, drama, visual art, library.....) and teachers with NO specialized skills in those areas were left to take over. So we designed schools where once again teachers who ARE artists, musicians.... can teach. Nice pendulum swing TDSB but we all know this won't work. These schools are popular. Students who attend these schools LOVE going to high school. They are still getting a quality high school curriculum ON TOP of their arts program. If you have buckets of money to throw around and are trying to find ways to waste/spend it, email me and I'll give you some suggestions.

Prevent specialization schools from going

These special programs help keep students in school. They learn many different things that cannot be put into a text book or computer.

Expand specialized courses and schools like the Adult Learning Centre at Central Tech. With strong program specific management, broader daytime access and more resources the Art School at Central Tech can many, many more interested students. A central downtown location and strong program will serve those students interested in depth art practice and theory. enhanced program. Things localized programs cant do? Maintain kilns and a pottery studio.

Children have the rights to receive education fits for him or her. Every child is special. So the education should have different programs for every child.

Please do not get rid of the programs that make me want to go to school every day

Keep the specific courses, many talents students without money

Special programs are what keep the world interesting. With generalized learning the city will be boring and wasted

Students who are interested in the arts and able to specialize perform better in their academics as a result. Sports do not provide a level playing field in public schools as kids have to try out for teams and some aren't athletically inclined even if they are interested. Lack of space in these programs means an increased interest. If you want to make things equitable open up more programs. Not all public school teachers are specialized in teaching specific arts (ie. dance, singing, photography) - these are skills people train years to be proficient in not just take a semester in "how to teach drama". Do away with auditions and portfolios-not arts programming. As for equity across cultural groups, I'd be interested in seeing who has applied not just who's accepted. Artistic interest and ability is not limited to any one group. Please listen to the public outcry on this issue. Our schools are already sorely lacking in the arts. This is not the place to make cutbacks!

Such talent has come our of these programs it really would be a shame to cancel them.

Please keep these programs! These special program provide more chance for students. It's very important in education with different program, and it is very important because the youth is the future of Canada.

The TDSB is making a decision that would prevent students in special programs from getting the specialized education they need. Please sign this petition to help these programs continue in the future!

Is next step eliminating universities? Isn't it unfair that some can only go to college (or not even ) while others get the benefit of higher education?

Going back to Dark Ages it is... Why not eliminate universities (and AP courses, tests, marks, etc) so that everybody are EQUAL .. and dumb

Specialized programs help raise the levels of education in Toronto and across the province. There is no benefit to bringing everyone down to the lowest common generic denominator!!!!!!

Very well said! This is pure "political correctness" and "social justice" hysteria in its ugliest form invading our educational system. The stupidity is such that they don't even realize many of the specialized programs such as TOPS and Macs (STEM focused) actually benefit capable students from the "disadvantaged" communities who would loose the chances to go to a better program

This will inevitably lead to a further dislike of the schooling process, in which a large portion of its students already lack trust, faith, and interest. Please keep these programs alive for those who want and are ready to work hard for an enriched experience out of their high school days!

Please keep these programs - they elevate the commitment of the students, teachers & parents. Engaged students are engaged citizens!