Petition addressed to: General Assembly of Newfoundland and Labrador

Students in our schools, especially those with learning barriers, are being failed by a critical shortage of Student Support staff. Most students with approved supports are not receiving adequate time with Student Assistants, IRT's, SLP's, or TLA's, and for parents who suspect their students need these resources, wait times for assessments are unacceptably long (sometimes years).

This is impacting student safety, learning, and mental well-being, and putting overwhelming pressure on teachers and existing staff.

Every child has the right to a safe learning environment, and every teacher and support worker deserves a safe, functional workspace where they can do their jobs effectively. Until the most basic need for safety and resources are met, we cannot expect academic achievement to follow.

We demand immediate action from the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District and the Department of Education.

We Are Calling For:

• Immediate review of staffing levels for:
• Student Assistants (SAs)
• Teaching and Learning Assistants (TLAs)
• Instructional Resource Teachers (IRTs)
• Speech and Language Pathologists (SLPs)
• A public report detailing:
• The number of students approved for supports
• The hours and staff currently allocated
• Wait times for assessments and service delivery
• Increased funding and urgent hiring to meet current student needs.
• A clear recruitment and retention plan to ensure these critical positions are filled and maintained long term.
• Ongoing consultation with parents, educators, and administrators to ensure no student is left unsupported.