To: The Honourable Bronwyn Pike, Minister for Education in the State of Victoria
The Petition of the VA VIEU Sub-branch supported by the general public
draws to the attention of The Honourable Bronwyn Pike, Minister for
Education
that, with the sudden decision of Vision Australia to permanently
close its school facility, dispense with its visiting teacher service,
its staff of specialist teachers and its teacher aides at the end of
2009, the futures of many vision-impaired children with or without
additional disabilities are in peril.
The RVIB School, now Vision Australia School, and its visiting
teachers, have assisted generations of children who are blind or have
low vision in reaching their potential, supported many through the
integration process into mainstream schooling and provided training and
help to many schools.
We understand that Vision Australia will not overturn its sudden
change of policy after 142 years, and will not reconsider offering the
full range of services, believing education to be the sole
responsibility of government.
Therefore the petitioners ask that the minister implement as quickly as
possible a vital and effective centre of education which will carry on
and expand the essential work of the current school.
The petitioners also ask that the minister fully provide every
state-funded school with appropriate services and equipment as well as
suitable training for teachers and aides in preparation for the unique
challenges faced by each child who is blind or has low-vision.
Sincerely,
Therefore the petitioners ask that the minister implement as quickly as possible a vital and effective centre of education which will carry on and expand the essential work of the current school.
Posted by: bike clothing | March 30, 2011 at 02:48 PM