Professional Practice Standards' Resources  |  Inclusive Education

Alberta’s approach to inclusion within the education system is based on all children and students being meaningfully engaged in the program of studies. The goal of inclusion is to ensure that each learner belongs and receives a high quality education regardless of their ability, disability, language, cultural background, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or other characteristic. 

Inclusive education is not about rules or eligibility criteria. It is not just about learners with special needs. It is about making educational decisions based on the best interests of learners. 

The principles of inclusion help guide and inform learner-centered decisions at every level of Alberta’s education system.

• Anticipate, value and support diversity and learner differences
• Set high expectations for all learners
• Understand learners’ strengths and needs
• Remove barriers within learning environments
• Build capacity
• Collaborate for success

Alberta Education Resources

For further information and resources on establishing an inclusive learning environment see each topic area below:

Instructional Supports - Planning instruction that acknowledges and honours diversity means thoughtfully selecting instructional supports that maximize student achievement.

Differentiation - Differentiated instruction is a philosophy and an approach to teaching in which teachers and school communities actively work to support the learning of all students through strategic assessment, thoughtful planning and targeted, flexible instruction.

Individualized Program Plan -  Students are at the center of the Individualized Program Plan and Individual Student Profile (IPP/ISP) process. When the focus is on students’ individual strengths, needs and participation, the IPP/ISP process can provide many benefits for all partners.

Transitions - Transitions are any events that result in changes to relationships, routines, expectations or roles. Although they are a normal part of life, these changes can be difficult for students.

Positive Behaviour Supports - Positive behaviour supports is a school-wide effort to promote positive social and communication skills, while reducing and preventing problem behaviours.

Assistive Technology for Learning - Assistive Technology for Learning (ATL) is a subset of a broad range of technologies that enhance students’ learning.

Welcoming , Caring, Respective and Safe Schools - Students, parents and school authorities have responsibilities for ensuring welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments that respect diversity and nurture a sense of belonging and a positive sense of self.

Medical Conditions - Teachers may need to access information about specific medical conditions and/or disabilities to better understand the learning needs of some students.

Gifted and Talented - School-aged children who are gifted may have different strengths and needs, and may be very different from one another. Each student who is gifted has an individual profile of abilities, needs, interests and learning preferences.

Mental Health - Just like physical health, everyone has mental health. It begins at birth and continues throughout life. Good mental health is not merely the absence of mental health problems.

Childhood Development - The first six years of a child's life are important to their development and future education. Children who are cared for and have positive experiences during the early years are more likely to develop and learn in ways that help them meet their full potential.

English as a Second Language - English as a Second Language (ESL) programming helps students learn English while also learning about Canadian cultural values, customs and social expectations. (K-6), (7-9), (10-12)