Hon. Jodie Wickens: Advancing Equity for Children and Youth with Support Needs in BC

As of November 18, 2024, the Honourable Jodie Wickens serves as British Columbia’s Minister of State for Child Care and Children and Youth with Support Needs. In this role, she focuses on enhancing childcare services and support systems for children and youth requiring additional assistance. Wickens works alongside the Minister of Education and Child Care, the Honourable Lisa Beare, to ensure that educational and care services are inclusive and accessible to all children in the province. Government of British Columbia  

The Ministry of Education and Child Care is charged with providing equitable education and support services. This includes initiatives like the Inclusive Child Care Strategy, which aims to improve access to high-quality, inclusive child care for families and children with support needs – Engage BC. Additionally, the ministry offers various resources and programs to support inclusive education and ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed – Government of British Columbia.

We at LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed. hope that Wickens’ appointment reflects the government’s dedication and forthcoming action to address the diverse needs of children and youth in this province, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive in educational settings and beyond.  

“I’m pleased to see the appointment of someone dedicated to early intervention focusing on accessibility and equity,” says LDS’ Senior Manager, Instruction & Innovation, Virginia Van Zee. “Children of BC urgently need access to early intervention that is affordable and strengths-based. Young learners develop their relationship to learning early, and strengths-based environments are essential to combat the stigma and negative experiences many neurodivergent individuals still face in their education journeys.” 

“We know that stigma, barriers, and exclusion can take root at a very young age,” says LDS’ Senior Manager, Early Years Programs, Marlo Humiski. “For families across British Columbia, access to inclusive childcare is essential. It is one of the most critical forms of support a family can receive before their child transitions into the school system, yet it remains one of the hardest to secure. I’m pleased to see the government taking this critical step towards a more supportive and inclusive BC. 

LDS remains a vital resource for children and youth with learning and brain-based differences such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism. Our expert team is committed to empowering families by providing early intervention, individualized support, and a strengths-based approach that builds confidence and fosters success. In a world where many families face exclusion, inequity, and insufficient support, we are here to bridge the gaps and create opportunities for every learner to thrive. 

We look forward to a collaborative relationship with Honorable Jodie Wickens, ensuring that all students across BC have a chance to succeed.   

– Rachel S. Forbes, Executive Director

LDS is a community of dedicated professionals who write collaboratively. We recognize the contribution of unnamed team members for their wisdom and input.