Sir James Whitney School for the Deaf on Dundas Street in Belleville. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber / Quinte News)
Workers at Sir James Whitney School for the Deaf in Belleville are concerned about the future of the school and they’re taking those concerns to the parents.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union local 456, which represents 120 workers at Sir James Whitney, is meeting late this afternoon to consider how to get the message out about the services at the school.
President Daryl O’Grady says it relates to the Drummond report which recommended closing three schools for the deaf and consolidating them in Milton.
O’Grady says regular schools don’t provide the needed services.
Ministry of Education spokesperson Gary Wheeler told Quinte News consultations with the schools’ employees and parents are underway.
He said, “In the coming weeks, we will be consulting with students, parents, staff, as well as education and community partners to explore ways to provide effective programs and services that will best support achievement and well-being.” One such meeting was held at the Belleville school last week.
Wheeler said the consultations will conclude in the spring.
