As a faith community, Edmonton Catholic Separate School District No. 7 welcomes all Students. Through inclusive practices inspired by the Gospel, the district seeks to meet students’ needs in regular classroom settings within the neighborhood school community, where a variety of services and supports are available.
The district recognizes, also, that the needs of some students can be better met in centralized district special education programs, where they can receive special assistance and still have the opportunity to be integrated with regular program students. Parents, guardians, and where appropriate students, have meaningful participation in the education decisions regarding placement and program.

The purpose of special education in the Edmonton Catholic School District is to provide opportunities for children with exceptional programming needs, including students with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Instruction, rather than setting, is the key to success and decisions related to the placement of students are best made on an individual basis in a manner that maximizes their opportunity to participate fully in the experience of schooling.

Within the inclusive setting, the principal is responsible for supporting students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Once this process has taken place, the members of the learning team (which may include a Learning Team Coordinator/Resource Facilitator, teacher, counselor, special needs teacher assistant, administrator, and classroom teacher) in collaboration with the parent(s), will then develop the students Individual Program Plan (IPP). Depending upon the needs of the student, additional school staff may be requested to support the student with the inclusive setting.

Support for school staff, in the provision of inclusive education for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder is available through the Department of Learning Support Services. Inclusive Education Consultants can assist teachers and administrators with finding resources, program planning, Individual Program Plan development, in-servicing, transition planning, and working in partnership with parents.

In certain circumstances a students needs may be best met through placement in district special education programs. If the student meets criteria for the program, the school, in collaboration with the parent(s) may wish to apply to the appropriate special education consultant. Though no formal district special education program specifically serves students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the district provides supports as needed to ensure student success within district sites. In addition, the district also provides access to specialized supports in the greater community. These may include services such as communication, education and behavioral programming, physical and occupational therapy. Families are invited to contact their community school and/or Learning Support Services by phone at 989-3001 for further information. As well, the district website may be accessed at www.ecsd.net.