Programming for Special Education
Programming for students and children identified with special education needs
Under the School Act, students in grades 1 to 12 in public and separate school boards (excluding charter schools) who are identified with special education needs are entitled to educational programming that conforms to Standards for Special Education, Amended June 2004. Similar requirements for ECS children are outlined in Standards for the Provision of Early Childhood Special Education. Requirements for students with special education needs in accredited-funded private schools are described in Requirements for Special Education in Accredited-Funded Private Schools.
According to the standards named above, every student or ECS child who is identified with special education needs must have an individualized program plan (IPP). It is up to the school principal to ensure that the school has processes and a learning team in place to provide consultation, planning, and problem solving related to programming for students and children with special education needs. The principal assigns teachers to coordinate, develop, implement, monitor, and evaluate student IPPs. The teacher involves parents and, when appropriate, other teachers and students, in this process.
More Information
Provincial Testing
Alberta Education is committed to accommodating the needs of all Alberta students to ensure fair and equitable access to educational opportunities. This includes the writing of provincial achievement tests and diploma examinations. The General Information Bulletin contains information on accommodations for students identified with special education needs and outlines the process for granting test accommodations.
Certificate of School Completion
Students with special education needs who work on individualized program plans may not be able to accumulate enough credits to achieve a high school diploma. For the first time this year, some senior high school students will be eligible for a Certificate of School Completion in special education. To receive the certificate, a student must be nominated by his or her school.
