Special education in Alberta
Alberta uses an Individualized Program Plan (IPP) and a system of student 'codes' to identify learning, behavioural, and medical needs.
The Alberta framework
Alberta delivers special education through its Ministry of Education and local school authorities. Schools have a duty to accommodate students with disabilities under the provincial human rights code and the Charter.
How identification works
Identification typically follows a referral, classroom observations, and (where needed) a psychoeducational or specialist assessment. Parents can formally request the process in writing.
Plan name in Alberta: Individualized Program Plan (IPP)
Your rights as a parent in Alberta
- Right to a free public education that accommodates disability
- Right to be consulted on your child's learning plan
- Right to request meetings, assessments, and reviews
- Right to bring a support person or advocate
- Right to escalate concerns inside and outside the school board
Key pathways
A written request triggers a documented process. Verbal requests often disappear.
Bring assessments and a written agenda. Confirm decisions in writing the same day.
Teacher → principal → superintendent → board. Document each step.
Province-specific deep-dives are coming. In the meantime, the strategies in our playbooks apply across Canada. For personalized help, book a strategy call.
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