Hello Reader,
In 2024 I learnt a lot about why schools struggle to implement a learning support program.
Most times it’s a resource (human and financial) related factor, which, of course is understandable.
Lots of schools are low-cost and parents aren’t paying enough to sustain that aspect of the school. Granted.
On the other hand, after a series of conversations and surveys with school leaders, I found out something quite interesting.
When a new student comes to enrol, especially if the student has an observable additional need, the worry is about the extent to which the school community can tolerate, not accept, but tolerate the child’s perceived “excesses”.
Now, at this point no one has asked whether the child has an assessment report or IEP o, mba!
Their defence mode kicks in instantly, and they would rather shut their doors to such a student than accommodate their needs.
Again, who’s to be blamed? Definitely not the students.
Special education is expensive, not just for the schools but also and especially for the parents of these students.
However my recommendation is one: outsource that aspect of your school and partner with a special education service provider. I have access to capable hands that are open to such partnerships with schools.
That way, you don’t necessarily have to turn students with additional needs back because of lack of resources to accommodate them.
Because if we keep turning students with additional needs away as a result of certain factors, where should they go to access education?
Food for thought.
To your success and that of your students,
Farouk Hassan
Lead Advisor, TISHA Consult
