Support specialized programs & schools made possible by optional attendance!

I strongly recommend not phasing out any of the specialized programs. thank you

People don't like special education because they couldn't get in. This also means they are not satisfied with current normal teaching method. Rather than focusing on bring up the level of competence of regular schools programs, this suggestion tends to shut down great opportunity for potential great students. This will set up the obstacles for whole board to march towards excellence and prosperity.

I would not like TDSB to take out the Specialized programs. thanks in advance

Hi, I am very disappointed to learn that TDSB is phrasing out programs such as Claude Watson. Please give a chance to kids with talents. George

I Do not want the TDSB to phase out these specialized programs.

These recommendations would kick off a 'race to the bottom' -- why get rid of some of the best programs in the city? Teachers are struggling to manage their classrooms currently; by cutting out the specialized programs, they will only have more on their plate, and fewer kids getting the support and challenges they need!

i feel discouraged, the opportunities i worked hard to get are suddenly worth nothing,

As a parent I believe special programs help children to enhance their language

TDSB should think about those people who work hard in art schools. i'm so pissed .if this happened all the art student all have no job in the future.

People work hard to get better education, without specialized programs you make this less accessible. Standardized education doesn't work for everyone. We all have different needs. Thank you.

As a teacher I am appalled at the narrow minded approach the TDSB is endeavouring to take in the name of equity. SAMENESS IS NOT FAIRNESS!!!

Inclusiveness is also LGBTQ. In the artistic community at Etobicoke School of Arts many have thrived because of the inclusiveness and welcoming environment this school has created that does not exist in most regular high schools. I also struggle to see how destroying something so successful that other boards visit to understand the model would make any sense. Funding improved resourcing to the underserved schools should consider options such as limiting optional attendance between non specialized schools, boundary changes and some thoughtful planning.

Students with specific interests and gifting should be encouraged with the opportunity to be in those specialized programs. It is not equitable to decline those students who are thriving and benefiting from those programs just because some group of people define equality differently. Equity is giving each student what they need to succeed and thrive, not forcing all students to have equal amounts of what others think they may or may not need.

It benefits so many peoples lives, and helps them get into some universities they would not have otherwise been able to apply to.

Nothing is more important than the education and development of our children. Leave the special programs alone!

We need to have these schools for the growth of young ones. Find the cutbacks elsewhere and leave students and education alone. The liberal government has already made changes to the School Board that has caused trouble and chaos.

This is totally unfair and frustrating for the hard-working and gifted students! It is time to phase out this short-sighted government

let there be art!

These schools/programs are absolutely vital to the development and, quite frankly, sanity of so many teens and young adults...

Attending ESA was one of the best decisions of my life. Please don’t take away the opportunity to learn, be confident and grow.