Leitrim school to receive new special class, hailed as “hugely positive”

Drumlease National School will receive an additional special class, according to an announcement on Wednesday.

The class is aimed at delivering catered learning to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

The class marks a significant development for the small Dromahair school, which has around 150 students enrolled, according to their website. 

“This is a hugely positive development for our community,” said Cllr Leitrim Cllr James Gilmartin, who added that it would “make a real and lasting difference to children who require tailored supports to reach their full potential within their own local school environment.”

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The announcement comes weeks after the news that three other schools in Leitrim were allocated funding for new special classes as part of a nationwide provision of more than 350 classes.

The Leitrim schools set to receive a new special class are Scoil Mhuire National School, Bornacoola, Gaelscoil Liatroma in Carrick-on-Shannon, and Carrick-on-Shannon Community School.

Parents of students with additional needs are often faced with difficulties finding places in schools which have the facilities to meet their children's needs.

“For many families, accessing appropriate educational supports can be a significant challenge, often involving long commutes or separation from local support networks. This new class will ease that burden considerably,“ said Cllr Gilmartin.

“This announcement demonstrates what can be achieved when schools, families, and the wider community work together. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have in the years ahead.”

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