The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Social Services has announced the establishment of the Department of Special Needs Services (DSENS).
The ministry said the DSENS is a pivotal entity dedicated to advancing and enhancing the lives of individuals with special needs across the Islands. Recognizing the commendable efforts of past providers, the department said it aims to build upon the foundation they laid and further elevate the standards of special education in the region.
In its inaugural year, the department said it will be strategically focused on building service capacity and assembled a highly skilled and passionate team committed to making a lasting impact.
The core team includes:
Dr. Anya Malcolm Gibbs - Director; Lashaunda Dickenson Skippings - Coordinator of Assessments; Christina Joseph - Behavioural Analyst; Jamiliyah Jordan - Speech/Language Pathologist; Paulette Simmons - Special Needs Teacher (SNAP); Sheniqua Morgan - Assistant Special Needs Teacher (SNAP).
Within the next few weeks the department aims to fill the posts of occupational therapist and six additional special needs teachers.
The ministry pointed out that the department’s overarching goal is to establish a Special Needs Center, a hub of support, resources, and expertise for individuals with special needs, noting that as part of government’s commitment to providing exceptional services, the ministry said it is happy to announce the continued operation of the Special Needs Association of Providenciales (SNAP) center, which currently serves as the placement for the country’s children with moderate to severe neurodevelopmental challenges.
“Though at capacity, as we expand, this center will play a crucial role in fostering the growth and development of those we serve. In the interim, our dedicated team is committed to delivering vital services across all islands, within the schools and communities, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive future,” the Ministry of Education said.
The ministry pointed out that exciting developments are on the horizon as government collaborates with international partners.
“Over the coming months, teams of specialists from One World Foundation and Therapy Abroad will be joining us to provide auditory evaluations and diagnostic assessments, with a primary focus on Autism Spectrum disorders. Additionally, speech and occupational therapy camps will be offered, contributing to the holistic well-being of our community,” the ministry further said.
It added: “The Department of Special Education Needs Services is not just a department; it is a beacon of hope, unity, and progress. We invite the community to join us on the transformative journey as we work together towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
“We look forward to having you all to our official launch on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, where we will share more details of our interim services. We invite you to look forward to new exciting initiatives as we continue in our best efforts.”
Specifically, Minister responsible for Education, Hon. Rachel M. Taylor, commenting on the DSENS’ implementation, elucidated:
“My Ministry is continuing efforts to assist children with special needs. Services for children with special educational needs and disabilities in the Turks and Caicos Islands are being transformed with the addition of these new specialized staff and the introduction of national standards for the department.
The long-awaited changes are being introduced to ensure that children and young people with special needs get high-quality and early support. All children are entitled to proper education regardless of their intellectual abilities.”
The education minister also stated that services at the SNAP Center are being manned by trained professionals who are passionate about assisting children to navigate the limitations that come with their respective intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities.
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