Inclusive Education month at Pembina Trails

Pembina Trails is committed to inclusion, "a way of thinking and acting that allows every individual to feel accepted, valued and safe." We encourage our students to care for each other and the world in which we live, recognize and celebrate each of our unique and diverse gifts, and promote a sense of community and belonging, both in the division and in the world.

We recognize that today's classrooms reflect our diverse communities and include a combination of student needs, learning styles and cultural backgrounds. February is National Inclusive Education Month, and to mark the occasion we were honoured to hear Jack Hutchings speak about his experience with inclusion in Pembina Trails.

Jack bravely stood in front of a packed room of educators and shared how he sometimes faced challenges in school during his early years. Jack has autism – and people had a hard time relating to him. He attends Vincent Massey Collegiate and one of his teachers, Ms. Jacquie Dawson, made a huge impact on his growth and success. Ms. Dawson included Jack in the school band and supported him as he learned to play the euphonium. Jack said that band class was the best part of his day: "I was part of a group!"

The grade 12 student spoke candidly about success as well as struggles. Jack's parents advocated for him to go on band trips and in 2015 he joined the group attending the Banff Music Festival and had the time of his life playing for a large audience.

He went on to complete grade 12 band with an impressive 84 per cent and is now a member of the Westwood Community Band, where he is making a lot of friends. "Inclusion works," Jack said. "By being part of Vincent Massey's band, I was able to develop the skills that I use today to be part of the Westwood Community Band."

Jack's story reflects the sentiment of Manitoba's Inclusive Education month proclamation: "By working together, we strengthen our capacity to provide the foundation for a richer future for all of us."

Jack, you are a true inspiration and we wish you all the best as you prepare to graduate and enter the workforce this June.

View our policy on inclusion