After facing backlash from a family, the province of British Columbia has reversed its decision to make changes to the school tube feeding program.
The initial changes, which were set to take effect in September, would have required parents to attend a training session and obtain a doctor’s note in order for their child to receive tube feeding at school. This sparked outrage from a family whose child relies on tube feeding to receive proper nutrition during the school day.
The family, along with advocacy groups, argued that the changes would create unnecessary barriers for families and put the health of children at risk. They also pointed out that the current system, which allows parents to provide instructions and supplies to school staff, has been working well for years.
In response to the backlash, the Ministry of Education announced that they will be reverting back to the previous system, where parents can provide instructions and supplies to school staff without attending a training session or obtaining a doctor’s note.
Minister of Education Jennifer Whiteside stated that the decision to make changes to the program was made with the best intentions, but after listening to the concerns of families and advocacy groups, they realized that the changes were not in the best interest of students.
The reversal of the changes has been welcomed by the family and advocacy groups, who are relieved that their children will continue to receive the necessary nutrition at school without any added barriers.
This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of those directly affected by policy changes. The province has acknowledged their mistake and has taken swift action to rectify it, ensuring that the well-being of students remains a top priority.
