Ontario Continues to Support Students with Autism

The Ontario government is working for the people by setting students up for success as they transition into school. We’re increasing supports for educators and building on existing programs, so school boards will be prepared to help ensure students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) feel safe and supported in their classrooms.

Through Enhancing Education Support: A Plan for Students with Autism, the government will:

• Promote professional learning by fully subsidizing an ASD-specific Additional Qualification course for teachers;
• Double funding to the Geneva Centre for Autism to provide online training opportunities for educators;
• Fund behavior expertise and student supports by continuing special education funding, including components responsive to enrollment of students with high needs;
• Expand after-school skills development programs for students on the Autism spectrum by providing funding to all 72 school boards;
• Support students transitioning into school through the Connections for Students model with autism service providers, educators and families; and
• Fund school boards for each new student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) entering the school system in the remaining months of the 2018-19 school year with an average of $12,300 to make sure there are proper supports available during the transition from therapy to school.

“Student success is our number one priority. We’re putting people first by ensuring both students and educators receive the support they need to succeed,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Education. “The existing supports in place to assist students with autism are tremendous. What we’re doing today is building on those supports and making sure we fill any gaps when it comes to promoting professional development.”

More information about school-based supports for students with ASD can be found on the ministry’s website.