Parents protest transfer of special educators at Delhi government school
A group of parents recently submitted a representation to Delhi government authorities protesting the administrative transfer of key special educators and care attendants from a local government school. The protest, which highlights the critical role of consistent support staff for children with special needs, comes as local educators, including Joginder Kumar, principal of Govt Co-Ed Sarvodaya Vidyalaya in Rohini, emphasize the importance of supportive learning environments. Parents warned that the abrupt transfers risk causing emotional distress, behavioural regression, and severe learning disruptions for children with autism and developmental challenges.
The transfer decision affects students who are currently preparing to enter the new academic year, including those transitioning into Class VI. According to the parents' representation, the years of trust built between special needs children and their educators cannot be easily replaced by routine administrative transfers.
For one Delhi family, the bond with a special educator has been vital. Their daughter, who is diagnosed with autism, spent five years from Class I to Class V with the same educator and is now entering Class VI. Her parents shared that the educator gradually learned the child's communication style, sensory triggers, and coping mechanisms. They noted that while their daughter does not like being touched, she holds her educator's hand every morning to go to class—a simple act that took years to establish.
Psychologist Kadambari Katoch, who has worked with children in Delhi government schools, explained that special educators act as anchors for students facing sensory overload, social anxiety, or academic frustration. She added that continuity allows educators to pre-teach concepts, reducing panic and making classroom participation less stressful.
The issue has sparked a broader conversation about how children with developmental disabilities rely on predictable routines. Another parent, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that they do not send their autistic child to school unless the trusted special educator is present, citing safety and communication worries.
In Rohini, efforts to support special education continue through collaborative initiatives. Joginder Kumar, the principal of Govt Co-Ed Sarvodaya Vidyalaya, Rohini, noted that his school shares resources with nearby institutions to ensure teachers remain informed about special education research. The school has also conducted a sign language course for teachers to foster a culture of acceptance and inclusion.
