To the Bonnyville Nouvelle:
I am writing to you because I am concerned about the recent cuts in the 2013 provincial budget, namely the cuts to education and post-secondary institutions.
Due to the cuts, Lakeland College in Vermilion has had to eliminate several programs in the field of health and human services. This includes childcare, sign language studies, and the transitional vocation program, which prepares students with developmental disabilities for the workforce.
I was a student enrolled in the transitional vocational program. Programs such as these are a public good. Without educational assistance, young adults with disabilities such as a lack of hearing, autism, or other disorders will be less able to work and live self-sufficiently, requiring aid such as AISH or special health care services. By giving those with special needs the tools and training to participate in Alberta's workforce they are able to apply their skills to better themselves and the province's economy. I myself required special needs education, and without the direction provided by these programs, it is possible I may not have the means or ability to work.
I write to you because I wish to inform the public of the issues facing the province's youth and young adults with special needs. Please contract your local representative and other influential members of Alberta's Legislature with your concerns about cuts to education and post-secondary programs.
Thank you,
Daniel Gregoire
Bonnyville
