By Sophie Ann Shears
High school throughout the years has changed, but how much has it changed for the students in the learning centre? Years ago students with mental or physical disabilities were misunderstood and treated in such a way that should never have been a part of our history. Now the learning centre students and the school system itself are getting a better understanding of what these students need to be successful. Mr. Chisholm, one of the vice principals of Charles P. Allen high school has said, “Students in the learning centre are treated very well at our school. PA’s are specifically assigned to students based on their strengths and what they need to improve on. We strive to find what best fits each and every individual student.” Each student is assigned a specific instructor to help benefit their needs and to help them be successful. Academically speaking, the learning centre students are getting the appreciation they deserve, but there is still a possibility of these students being discriminated against in the school community.
“We have learning centre students on Student Council, and many of them are involved in sports and extracurricular activities. These individuals are greatly involved in the school community,” says Mr. Chisholm. Learning centre students are greatly accepted in the school atmosphere as well as the school community but still face discrimination. Ms. Aucoin, a school guidance counselor from Charles P. Allen has said, “The learning centre students are treated exceptionally well and do a lot of work around the school (recycling, replacing toilet paper and towels, etc).” She also said, “Although they are treated exceptionally well, society still challenges them and some students even feel uncomfortable being around some of the students. The physical challenges can be very hard on some of the students especially since a lot of students do not understand the learning centre students.” While this is valid, it is still important to remember that these students are just like the other students, they just face greater challenges. Unless you talk to these students and get a better understanding, people will always feel uncomfortable around them. The learning centre students are getting a better education and are being treated better in the school community than they ever have before, but there are still so many great challenges and so many ways to improve the way they are being treated.
