KINGSTON, Jamaica — Opposition Spokesperson on Gender, Elderly and Persons with Disabilities, Denise Daley, is calling for an urgent assessment of the staffing situation at the Salvation Army School for the Blind and Visually Impaired amid reports that it is being forced to turn away students because of staffing shortages.

In a statement on Monday, Daley described it as ‘unacceptable’ that children who are visually impaired or living with multiple disabilities could be turned away from the institution, emphasising the importance of specialised education for their development, independence and future opportunities.

“This situation is deeply concerning. No child should be placed in a position where they cannot access the education they need because there are not enough teachers and support personnel available to meet their needs. We have to do better for our children with disabilities,” Daley said.

She maintained that as the profile and needs of students continue to evolve, the support provided to these institutions must evolve with them.

“We need to further strengthen the staffing complement at specialist schools and ensure that the resources provided are aligned with the actual needs of students, particularly those with multiple disabilities,” she said.

She called for an assessment of the staffing situation at the school as well as other specialist institutions, with a view, she said, to addressing existing gaps and ensuring that no child is denied access because the necessary support is unavailable.

“Strengthening special education means looking at the whole picture. It means ensuring that we have enough trained teachers and support staff, but also that students have access to assistive technology, transportation and facilities that are accessible and appropriate for them,” she said.

Daley added, “We must continue to build a system that does not simply accommodate children with disabilities, but gives them every opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.”

The spokesperson is urging the Government to engage with the school, the Salvation Army, parents and disability advocates to identify the immediate needs and ensure that the necessary support is provided.