Education

The Canadian Down Syndrome Society works to  ensure equitable opportunities for all Canadians with Down syndrome by  fostering a climate of understanding and mutual respect for the dignity, worth  and equal rights for ALL people.

The  Canadian Down Syndrome Society asserts inclusion as the best model for  education of all students, including students with Down syndrome; In this way, ALL students learn together,  diversity is valued, personal growth and citizenship enhanced, and equity  experienced.

The  following statements describe optimal educational principles:

• Inclusive education in neighborhood  schools. 
• Individualized instruction that is  carefully planned to meet specific needs without compromising the feeling of  membership and belonging in the classroom.
• Families as integral members of the  education team in all planning and decision-making.
• Appropriate professional, classroom,  teacher, peer and community supports.
  Respectful, supportive and caring  environments where students participate as full citizens in their school  communities.
• Instruction that reflects current  professional knowledge and best practice as supported by recent research.
• High expectations for all students  and teachers who treat each student as a valuable, and contributing individual.
• Educators who are prepared to  advocate excellence in education for all students, recognizing that excellence  is not synonymous with improved achievement on standardized tests.
• People with Down  syndrome are life-long learners and should have access to post secondary  learning opportunities, continuing adult education and transition to work  supports.
  

Special education is a collection of supports and  services; It is not a place.

Position Statement on Education
Updated and Approved 2007

Please note: This position statement is not a static document. As we continue to gather research, this statement is subject to change in order to reflect new findings. It is the goal of the CDSS to always have position statements that are the most relevant and up to date.