During this week’s class we had Tracy Humphries as a guest speaker. She is the founder and chair of the BCEd Access Society. The BCEd Access Society is a volunteer run organization serving families and students with disabilities. The organization aims to support children who have disabilities, or identify as complex learners, reach their full potential in both the BC education system, and in life. Tracy Humphries spoke very candidly about her struggles with learning disabilities like ADHD, and also about her struggles raising a child with disabilities in the BC education system. I could feel that she is very passionate about the subject and invested in helping others with their struggles. It was interesting to hear that many teachers are denied access to technology in the classroom, like the inability to get FM systems, and that some teachers are not allowing their students to use AAC. She also mentioned that many parents have told her that the BC public school system’s technology is outdated, access to technology is difficult and problematic, and there is minimal support for parents and students in use of the technology. This has been especially challenging during the COVID pandemic. As teachers entering the BC education system, I think it is very important to be aware of these issues and, as new teachers, we need to work towards creating better opportunities for future students with disabilities. 

Where to start?

  1. Read IEP.
  2. Ask the family.
  3. Ask the student.
  4. Think about what you have available. What can you get? What do you need to advocate for?

Speaking with students and their families is a great way to better understand what each individual learner needs to succeed in their education. Once you have initiated the conversation, it will become easier to help make a positive change.