One of Canada's largest provinces will support students with disabilities
The Alberta government is in favor of affordable education for everyone.
The government of Alberta, Canada's fourth largest province, is allocating CA$ 5 million for the school year (2023-2024) to support students with disabilities. Currently, the number of students with low incidence disabilities in Alberta is about 7,500 — or 1% of the total student population. This statistic includes blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, deafblind, or those with complex communication needs.
The funding will allow schools in the province to hire educators with appropriate specialization, purchase specific equipment and offset the high cost of technology and services needed by some students.
Minister of Education and United Conservative Party member Demetrios Nicolaides has spoken out about Low Incidence Supports and Services (LISS):
"Alberta’s united conservative government firmly believes in protecting and supporting our vulnerable students."
The Alberta Education Act requires school administrators to identify students with disabilities and provide them with the necessary supports for their education. LISS funding comes in addition to annual grants to support specialized instruction in schools across the province.
The distribution of LISS funds to Alberta educational institutions will be adjusted to meet the needs of specific schools. Funding for administrations will be based on the number of eligible students and the location of the schools — with priority given to rural and remote areas.
