Standards for Special Education, Amended June 2004

Standards for Special Education, amended June 2004 requires school boards in Alberta to identify and deliver effective programming for students with special education needs in grades 1-12. It promotes consistent and enhanced quality of educational practice within the province, so that irrespective of location, students with special education needs can access appropriate programming and services. Alberta Learning acknowledges the importance of local autonomy, flexibility and choice in meeting the diverse learning needs of students. This document outlines the requirements for school boards regarding the delivery of education programming and services to students with special education needs in grades 1-12. These requirements are organized into the following four areas: (1) Access--students with special education needs are entitled to have access in a school year to an education program in accordance with the School Act. Students with special education needs receive adapted or modified programming that enables and improves learning; (2) Appropriateness--educational programming and services are designed around the assessed needs of the student and are provided by qualified staff that are knowledgeable and skilled; (3) Accountability--the obligation to answer for the execution of one's assigned responsibilities; and (4) Appeals--timely, fair and open processes protect the rights of students and parents and address differences of opinion about the education of students with special education needs. Appendix is: (1) Legislation--School Act.