Ontario Autism Advocates Push for More Funding

0:00Ontario Autism advocates are pushing hard for more staffing and funding in special education. They argue schools lack the in-class supports needed to keep kids with autism safe and fully involved. Without these resources, children face shortened days or unsafe situations that disrupt their learning. Take Shannon McNally from Ottawa, for example. Her seven-year-old son Owen has autism and complex needs. Back in February, his school cut his day to just two hours because they couldn't staff it safely for a full schedule. McNally had to quit her job and fight for months to get him into a specialized classroom. Meanwhile, her nine-year-old daughter, who also has autism and special needs, wandered off school grounds during recess last week. She was missing for two agonizing hours until a neighbor found her. Parents like McNally highlight the real human cost, with families stretched in and kids at risk. Advocates say this points to a broader crisis in the system. The Education Minister notes the progressive conservative government has boosted special education funding since taking power in 2018.

1:04Still, families on the ground say it's not reaching classrooms where it's needed most, fueling calls for urgent change. That's your Canada News Today update. AI powered and always on.