About Us

Red Deer Public School District provides a comprehensive range of programs and services to address the diverse learning needs or our student population. We believe all students should be educated in the most supportive environment.

A multidisciplinary approach is emphasized by Student Services when developing and implementing alternative or special programs for students. In addition to support services provided directly by Student Services staff we have also established both formal and informal links with external service providers to better meet the needs of our students.

In order for some students to be successful in school and to realize their full potential as individuals, it is necessary for them to have special programs that suit their unique abilities. Participation of exceptional students in regular school settings is based on the philosophy of equality, sharing, participation, and the worth and dignity of individuals.

Red Deer Public School District supports students within a Learning Support Team. This team consults and shares information relevant to the individual student’s education, and plans special education programming and services as required. The team may consist of the Learning Assistance Teacher, classroom teacher, parents, student (where appropriate), and other school and jurisdiction staff who are aware of the student’s needs. We value the importance of parent involvement and recognize that parent support is essential to student success.

Beliefs

All students have the right of access to an education.

Students with special needs:

• Are those described as requiring specialized programming because of their behavioral, communication, intellectual, learning or physical characteristics or a combination of those characteristics (Section 29 (1) of the School Act). 
• May require changes to the regular curriculum (materials and resources), evaluation, instructional strategies, staffing, facilities, equipment or health care services. 

Should be included to the greatest extent possible within:

• the regular classroom setting 
• the neighborhood school 
• the school district

Flexible and diverse programming allows students to experience maximum success. Red Deer Public School District supports inclusion. The most enabling program for an individual student may be outside the regular classroom placement or outside the immediate community school. Such placements will be determined on a consultative basis with schools, district office staff, parents and appropriate outside agencies.

Parents/guardians of students with special needs will:

 Have the right to be consulted and participate in placement decisions for their children.

• Be informed and have choices regarding program options. 
• Participate in the development of the student’s Individualized Program Plan.

 

Contact
Jodi Goodrick, Assistant Superintendent – Student Services, Red Deer Public School District No. 104 4747 – 53 St, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 2E6 Phone: 403-342-3715   Fax: 403-347-8190	or	Denise Skelding, Secretary, Student Services Phone: 403-342-3703