The Lethbridge School Division is among the school divisions in Alberta that will be eligible for funding to support students with low-incidence disabilities. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By Pattison Media Staff

Province provides more funding for students with disabilities

Feb 2, 2023 | 10:00 AM

EDMONTON, AB – The Alberta government says it is increasing funding by more than $3 million to specialized supports and services to maintain inclusive learning environments for students.

The province says many students with a low-incidence disability require highly-specialized and expensive technology and services throughout their schooling.

This funding will allow school authorities to hire and train specialized professionals and provide equipment for students who are blind, deafblind, deaf, hard of hearing or have complex communications needs.

Some examples of eligible expenses include staff members such as teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, teachers of the blind or visually-impaired, educational audiologists, sign language interpreters, orientation and mobility specialists, braille assistants, and augmentative and alternative communication specialists.

Funding can also be used to purchase assistive technology or materials and training for existing staff members.

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Education Minister Adriana LaGrange says this funding is one of many steps the government is taking to further strengthen the education system.

“We have heard from families and school divisions that more supports are needed in the classroom to help address and support class complexity,” says LaGrange.

According to the province, there are approximately 7,500 Alberta students who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, deafblind, or have complex communication needs.

CNIB Foundation Vice-President for Western Canada Christall Beaudry says the organization applauds the move.

“Education is a key predictor of future employment and quality of life in the blind and partially sighted community,” says Beaudry. “This announcement shows this government listened to our students, parents and teachers for the visually impaired and they understand that investing directly in the education sector will make a meaningful difference, both now and in the future so our kids will thrive.”

The funding will be provided directly to public and separate school boards, public charter schools and francophone regional authorities that identified need for additional supports.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now