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By Josh Hall
changes 20 years in the making

Alberta to implement new framework for supporting students

Oct 23, 2026 | 7:11 AM

The Government of Alberta says it is implementing a new framework to provide clear and consistent guidelines for how students are supported in classrooms.

The Student Support Policy Framework sets the stage, the province explains, to update guidelines that haven’t been refreshed in more than 20 years.

“This framework will help ensure students receive support based on their individual strengths and needs, while providing clearer guidance on how those supports are identified and delivered,” says Demetrios Nicolaides, Education and Childcare Minister.

“It is an important step toward a more consistent and responsive system of student support across Alberta.”

It’s also noted the framework was informed by engagement with school boards, teachers, parents, researchers, education partners, and community organizations.

“Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) valued the opportunity for public, Catholic and francophone school boards to provide input during the development of the Student Support Policy Framework,” says Shali Baziuk, president, ASBA.

“School boards have been advocating for the modernization of the Standards for Special Education and look forward to ongoing engagement in support of student success.”

According to a news release, the Student Support Policy Framework does not create new legislative requirements or replace the Standards for Special Education (2004). What it does do is work within existing requirements and policies while laying the foundation for modernizing provincial requirements for student supports, including specialized supports and services.

The Student Support Policy Framework was developed as part of Alberta’s broader Class Size and Complexity initiative and responds to recommendations from the Aggression and Complexity in Schools Action Team.

The framework is scheduled for review every five years, or earlier if directed by the ministry.

by Josh Hall