NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release 2010EDUC0107-001047 Sept. 8, 2010

Ministry of Education

 

EDUCATORS GO BACK TO SCHOOL TO HELP KIDS WITH FASD

 

VICTORIA – Education Minister Margaret MacDiarmid sends her thanks to more than 1,000 educators who trained last year to better assist students with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

 

The training was provided to educators across B.C. through the Provincial Outreach Program for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, known as POP FASD. The outreach program uses social media and online learning modules to support teachers and other education professionals to better meet the needs of students challenged with FASD.

 

“Last year, POP FASD added seven new courses to their website, and within days of the online release these courses were helping educators in their classrooms across B.C.” said MacDiarmid. “Using new communication tools such as online learning and social media sites, is a cost-effective way of ensuring our education system offers the best service for all of our students regardless of their geographic location or personal challenges.”

 

Other highlights from POP FASD in 2009-2010 include:

·         Hosting online meetings and presentations.

·         Beginning development of three new online training courses for educators.

·         Delivering presentations in eight previously unvisited districts.

·         Producing a DVD with eLearning modules for District Partners.

 

Sept. 9 is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Awareness Day, a day to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the plight of individuals and families who struggle with FASD.

 

FASD is the most common preventable birth disorder in the western world and causes lifelong brain damage. Health Canada estimates nine births per 1,000 are affected in some way by prenatal alcohol exposure. It affects how the brain processes information and symptoms range from mild learning disabilities to more severe challenges where children may have difficulty responding to emotions, planning ahead or understanding the consequences of their actions.

 

“The nature of FASD makes it a challenge for educators because no two cases are exactly alike,” said MacDiarmid. “That’s why we are committed to supporting our educators and enhancing their understanding of how to best help the students who are affected by this disorder.”

 

The program, based in School District 57, Prince George, was first launched in 2006 and in 2010-2011, more than $500,000 is being committed. The work of the POP FASD is supported by the Ministry of Education and a multi-district steering committee, which offers advice, direction and feedback, and works to raise the profile of FASD in school districts across the province.

 

In education, total funding for all students with special needs is now an estimated $834 million dollars a year.

 

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Media Contact:

Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Education 250 356-5963

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