Red Deer Public School Division

Student Services

Equity and Inclusion - Creating Success for All Students

Red Deer Public Schools believes all children require a fair and inclusive education so that their diverse learning needs, personal situation and/or social circumstances are not an obstacle to achieving their educational potential. An environment that recognizes and celebrates diversity for staff and students fosters a strong sense of belonging and recognizes differences as valuable resources for engagement and learning. At Red Deer Public Schools, each child/student is presumed competent and capable of learning.

Inclusion within Red Deer Public Schools is a collaborative, team effort in which staff and community agencies work together to create classrooms that embrace diversity, fosters a sense of social responsibility, and supports positive relationships. Establishing an authentic sense of belonging fosters success and well being for all.

Student Services Priorities

Each student is engaged in meaningful learning that is appropriate to his or her abilities that takes place in the most enabling environment.

Red Deer Public Schools supports inclusion. Flexible and diverse programming allows students to experience maximum success. 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.

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.

All students should be included to the greatest extent possible within:

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

Each staff member has the ability to meet the diverse needs of all students.

At Red Deer Public Schools, improved services for students begins with knowledgeable and skilled staff. Professional development is encouraged and supported for staff to be innovative thinkers and effective leaders in their fields. Through conferences, workshops and professional learning communities, educators receive continuing instruction and support in best practices in inclusive education.

Each student is able to access the supports and services they need to achieve success.

A multidisciplinary approach is emphasized by Student Services when developing and implementing alternative or specialized 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.

Empowering Students and Families

Red Deer Public Schools supports students within a Learning Support Team. This team consults and shares information relevant to the individual student’s education, and plans inclusive 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 district staff who are aware of the student’s needs.

Parents are valued members of their child's school learning team. Parent participation and engagement provides valuable insights and support to their child's success.

Contact

Nicola Golby, Associate 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

Denise Skelding, Administrative Assistant
Student Services
Phone: 403-342-3703