In the line of truth: Education in My Context

 Background

As a Catholic priest, I was ordained in 2005, and right after that, I was involved with the educational field as part of my ministry and assignment.

• 2006-2010: Administrator  at Redemptorist School for People with Disability, Pattaya, Thailand

• 2015-2022: Borad Committee at Pramatai Suksa, Bangkok, Thailand.

• 2023-now: Assistant Director of Saint George Anusorn School, Bang Bo, Bangkok

The definition of education is broader, encompassing not only academic knowledge but also the development of character, values, and skills necessary for individuals to lead fulfilling lives and contribute positively to society. Through my experiences in various educational institutions, I have witnessed the transformative power of education in empowering individuals, especially those with disabilities, to reach their full potential and lead meaningful lives.

Nevertheless, I am still learning and training myself for this mission. I am constantly seeking new ways to improve my teaching methods and support my students in their personal and academic growth. Education is a lifelong journey of growth and self-discovery, and I am committed to helping my students navigate this journey with courage and determination. As an educator, I strive to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and supported in their quest for knowledge and personal development.

Inclusive Education: Experiences in Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities and Pramahatai Suksa School

We prefer to refer to handicapped people as "people with abilities," or PWD. PWDs are physically disabled; for example, their important organ functions are limited or lost, and some have a mental disability such as autism or Down syndrome. For the past decades, it seemed impossible for them to be integrated into the Thai educational system. These individuals have faced numerous challenges due to lack of understanding and support. As it was said, the only job available for them was a beggar or lottery seller. Children with mental disabilities were dependent on their parents or family for the rest of their lives.

However, with the implementation of inclusive education policies and awareness campaigns, there has been a gradual shift towards creating more opportunities for PWDs in Thailand. Organizations and advocates have been working tirelessly to promote equal access to education and employment for individuals with disabilities. With continued efforts, there is hope for a more inclusive society where PWDs can thrive and contribute positively.

Both Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities (RVSD) and Pramahatai Suksa School (PS) focus on providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their abilities.

Educational Model at Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities (RVSD), Pattaya

In Pattaya, the overall administration school was run through two organizations: the Father Ray Foundation (https://www.fr-ray.org), which is mainly a fundraising organization, and the Redemptorist Foundation for People with Disabilities (RFD) (https://www.mahatai.org), which promotes PWDs' rights and provides jobs for them. The foundations provide education and human improvement for PWD students. They can study free of charge, including boarding and lodging. The Job Placement Department was established to provide jobs for both graduate students and PWD in Thailand.

The school is involved with two governmental bodies: the Ministry of Education (MOE) (https://www.moe.go.th) and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSODHS), which was established in 2002 (https://www.msdhs.go.th). The Pattaya model is unique in how Catholic non-profit organizations interact, cooperate, and work with the Thai authority in order to keep high standards for PWD and to promote human dignity in religious terms and morality. An educational quote was expressed, "No one left behind." On the other hand, for Christian values, "To help the poor and marginalized is our primary mission of Christ.".

Educational Model at Pramahatai Suksa School (PSS), Bangkok

To understand the nature of Pramahatai Suksa School (PSS), one must understand that it was a parish school. According to the Redemptorist Congregation of Thailand, a parish school has received funding and support from a Holy Redeemer Church. This close connection to the church allows for a strong emphasis on moral and religious education in addition to academic learning.

For the past decade, parents have been more demanding and requesting a place for other special needs children. The problem was that the school was not ready to handle them. However, in response to the growing need, PSS has recently implemented a new inclusive educational model that aims to provide a supportive and enriching environment for students of all abilities. This shift aligns with the school's mission to serve marginalized populations and reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion in education.

At first, we invited the experts in special needs children to work with us side by side. They are involved with training problems for administrators, teachers, students, and parents. PSS works with them to draw certain curricula that have to be adjusted and integrated into the Thai school system. There are researchers who come and help to develop innovative teaching strategies and resources tailored to the needs of all students. Additionally, the school has implemented professional development programs to ensure that teachers are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to support diverse learners effectively. This collaborative approach has proven to be successful in creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students at the school.

Second step: When PSS has developed and established an inclusive culture in school, we negotiate with parents individually and, case by case, how to integrate their children into PSS. This personalized approach allows for open communication between parents and school staff, ensuring that each student's unique needs and abilities are taken into account. By working together, parents and teachers can create a plan that supports the student's academic and social development. This collaborative effort not only benefits the student but also strengthens the partnership between home and school, ultimately leading to greater success for all involved.

Conclusion

Analogically, the school vision is how we see the way to go, and our mission is how to pave that way. School's values are the spirit and charism deepening in our hearts, minds, and souls. Both Redemptorist School for People with Disabilities in Pattaya and Pramahatai Suksa in Bangkok were driven by the spiritual and charismatic force, not just "no one is left behind" but "embracing the childlike Jesus, allowing children to come to him, and he touches and blesses them."

This approach to education goes beyond academic achievement and focuses on the holistic development of each student. By instilling values such as compassion, empathy, and inclusivity, these schools create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. The dedication of the staff and the support of the community further enhance the mission of these schools, ensuring that every student is given the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through this partnership between home and school, a strong foundation is laid for success in both academic and personal growth.