Every student is unique, with different strengths and challenges. We provide a range of learning environments to help nurture students’ emotional, mental and physical well-being.
We offer specialized learning supports for students who have emotional, behavioural, cognitive, learning, speech, hearing, vision, physical or medical needs.
If your child needs specialized learning supports:
What does inclusive education look like at Edmonton Public Schools? Learn more about how we welcome all students in the classroom.
At Edmonton Public Schools, inclusive education means ensuring every one of our students, no matter their cultural background, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, age, gender, ability or disability has access to the supports they need, feels a sense of belonging and receives a high quality education. It’s about our efforts to build environments that are truly welcoming of all kids.
–Superintendent Darrel Robertson
REVIEW THE PROGRAMMING OPTIONS
All students have access to a high-quality education that supports their strengths, interests and challenges.
Our Division offers:
regular programming
alternative programming
specialized programming
All students are welcomed and encouraged to participate in all school-wide activities like field trips, school assemblies, performances and track and field days.
OPTION 1: REGULAR OR ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM
Division schools offer regular and alternative programming, and the options offered vary from school to school. All curriculum is determined by Alberta Education. A school’s focus, optional courses and activities will vary depending on how it is organized to meet student needs. Students may be required to meet criteria for some alternative programs.
In the classroom, teachers will design instruction to make learning accessible for all students.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN A REGULAR OR ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM
Students attending a regular or alternative program:
learn alongside same-aged classmates who may have different learning needs and abilities
develop their social, emotional, academic and physical skills
receive specially modified programming and additional supports to meet their individual needs
participate in school-wide and community activities
Use the Find a School tool to search for your designated elementary, junior high and high school.
OPTION 2: SPECIALIZED PROGRAM AT SELECT SCHOOLS
Specialized programs support students who have:
mild learning disabilities
moderate or severe autism
moderate and severe cognitive disabilities
moderate and severe behavioural challenges
physical or medical conditions
communication disabilities
Students enrolled in a specialized learning program will receive instruction determined by Alberta Education, as well as specialized supports designed for their individual needs and abilities.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN A SPECIALIZED PROGRAM
Students attending a specialized program:
must meet eligibility requirements
learn alongside similar-aged classmates who require similar supports and services
develop their social, emotional, academic and physical skills
receive adapted or modified programming and additional supports to meet their individual needs
receive targeted instruction in smaller classes
participate in school-wide and community activities
SPECIALIZED LEARNING SUPPORTS FOR STUDENTS
At Edmonton Public Schools, we have a Specialized Learning Supports (SLS) department that consists of multidisciplinary consultants who support students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Consultants have experience and expertise in areas ranging from occupational therapy and reading to mental health, social work and more. SLS consultants collaborate with school staff to support students’ needs and can help identify students’ specialized learning needs.
See how our schools and Specialized Learning Supports consultants work together to help students achieve success.
Hear from other parents about how classroom supports are helping their children.
DETERMINE A PROGRAMMING CHOICE
STEP 1: CONTACT THE SCHOOL
Students new to the Division
If your child is not with Edmonton Public Schools and you would like to enrol your child, use the Find a School tool to find your designated school and contact the principal.
Current Division students
If your child has specialized learning needs, the first step is to talk to your child’s teacher. Share any relevant documents about your child’s needs with your teacher.
STEP 2: MEET WITH THE PRINCIPAL
The principal or school administrator will reach out to you to discuss your child’s needs and options.
You may talk about whether a regular or alternative program is the best fit or if your child is eligible to attend a specialized program. Some programs have limited space and are only available at select Division schools.
If your child is accessing any specialized supports or home services, let the principal know. It helps to understand how your child is supported outside of school.
You may be asked to provide information that includes:
a diagnosis
educational assessments
progress reports
individualized program plans (IPP, also known as IEP)
STEP 3: DECIDE NEXT STEPS
If you’re considering a specialized program, discuss options for your child with your designated school principal. If you’re considering a regular or alternative program, learn more about registering for school.
