Leitrim principal welcomes new ASD classes in south Leitrim school
The school’s principal Rachel Shannon expressed both pride and relief at the development, highlighting the positive impact it will have on students and families.
Leitrim Secondary School Lough Allen College has received welcome news this week with the approval of a second ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) class, marking another significant step forward in further supporting students with additional educational needs.
The announcement has been warmly received by staff, parents, and the wider community, as it will allow the school to expand its inclusive education provision and better accommodate the growing demand for specialised supports.
The school’s principal Rachel Shannon expressed both pride and relief at the development, highlighting the positive impact it will have on students and families.
“This is a hugely important for our school community,” she said. “The addition of a second ASD class means we can continue to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for those who benefit from smaller class settings and tailored teaching approaches. This news is a weight lifted for us all but especially for the parents who have a child commencing with us in September".
She also emphasised the collaborative effort behind the approval:
“We are grateful to the Department of Education, NCSE, our director of schools Michael Walshe, local counsellors Mary Bohan and James Gilmartin, our SENO Regina Bohan and to everyone who supported this application. It reflects the hard work and commitment of our staff, and our ASD co-ordinator Aoife Heeran. Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and this news brings us closer to making that a reality for all,” she added.
Planning is now underway to prepare facilities and resources for the new ASD class for this September.