A public meeting on the challenges of rural education raised questions about the process involved in deeming schools non-viable.
Educators, superintendents and parents gathered at the Knights of Columbus in Amherstburg Tuesday. Low enrolment, lack of facilities and distance were some of the issues raised according to MPP Lou Rinaldi. He says there's a re-occurring theme at every meeting he's been to, people want more dialog with administrators when school are closing, and they want more input when it comes to alternatives to shuttering schools.
Rinaldi says people want more dialog with administrators when school are closing, and they want more input when it comes to alternatives to shuttering schools.
"There needs to be more consultation with the public, with other partners in municipalities," "I met with municipal leaders today, along with some school board trustees, and directors and that seems to be a recurring theme. I'm not blaming school boards. They're working with the frame work that they're given."
With low enrolment numbers, Rinaldi says it's hard to offer the curriculum and social interaction kids need.
"How can we keep a school and be able to offer today's programs. Not only in writing, or math, but even social programs, the arts sports, that I think are very very important in the development of a child."
Rinaldi says information gathered at public meetings will be used to enhance education in rural areas.