Sample Email Template on Special Class Provisions

Dear Deputy ____________,

As (a) parent(s) of a child with Down syndrome, I am (we are) contacting you to request your support as I/ we advocate for the provision of an appropriate special class for my (our) child in our local primary /post primary school.

Children with Down syndrome are a unique category in terms of their specific cognitive sensory, medical, and developmental profile, which impacts on their learning needs as they progress through the education system at all levels. Children who have additional support needs arising from one or more complex factors or multiple factors (needs that are likely to continue for more than a year) are deemed to have ‘complex needs.’ When we look at children with Down syndrome, we must consider both the intellectual disability and the chromosomal disorder or disability. The chromosomal disorder in itself has multiple factors, with both the intellectual disability and chromosomal disorder contributing to the specific cognitive profile and complex learning needs for children with Down syndrome.

As a result, children with Down syndrome frequently face unique challenges in accessing suitable school placements. While many children can and do thrive in mainstream settings with the right & structured supports, others require placements in special classes or special schools. We are (I am) experiencing difficulties in securing special class placements that appropriately match my (our) child’s needs. The marked imbalance in the numbers of, for example, Autism/ASD classes nationally, against the numbers of appropriate class settings for children with Down syndrome requiring a special class setting, brings into clear focus the issues I (we) face as I (we) struggle to secure an appropriate special class place for my (our) son/ daughter at primary/post-primary level. For your information, the numbers of special classes per county at primary and post primary levels are outlined in a recent DSI report and can be accessed at this link Down Syndrome Ireland.

Every child with Down syndrome is entitled to a high-quality education, one that recognises and respects their needs, and that plans proactively for their future, not as an afterthought, but with intention and respect. Education should not be reactive or generic, but intentional, inclusive, and designed with dignity at its core.

I (We) look forward to your support with this important issue and I (we) can be contacted for further information on (Phone Number) or by email at (Email address here)

Yours Sincerely,

_____________________