No guidelines for cuts to special classes

LAST February, Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe took it upon himself to abolish more than 120 special classes for children with mild general learning disabilities.

Although a report on the role of special classes was imminent, he chose not to await its publication.

Schools affected were advised to appeal. Having sat on his decision since before the elections, the minister issued schools with their letters of rejection last Friday week. However, no guidelines were issued outlining how schools which had lost one of their two or three special classes should prioritise the children for special class support.