Navigating Individualized Program Plans (IPPs) in Alberta Schools: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Written by - Tanya Leukfeld

Did you know that in Alberta, approximately 20,500 students—about 3 in every 100—are diagnosed with learning disabilities? That's a significant number of children who may need extra support to succeed academically.  As a parent navigating your child’s Individualized Program Plan (IPP), understanding this process is crucial to ensuring they receive the personalized education they deserve. In this blog, we'll guide you through the key steps and offer helpful tips to make the most of your child’s IPP, so you can support their unique learning journey with confidence.

When a child in Alberta is identified as having special education needs, the development of an Individualized Program Plan (IPP) becomes a vital step in ensuring they receive the right support at school. An IPP is more than a document—it's a
collaborative and personalized plan tailored to a student's learning needs, created to support their growth, development, and success.

An IPP outlines targeted strategies, realistic goals, and necessary accommodations designed specifically for each student. It serves as both a roadmap for educators and a source of clarity for families. For many parents, however, navigating this process can feel overwhelming, especially when they are unfamiliar with educational terminology or unsure of their role in the planning process.

Understanding the IPP Process

The IPP process begins with identifying a student's strengths and needs, which includes gathering information from teachers, assessments, and parents. From there, specific long- and short-term goals are set, which are SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. These goals help direct instruction and ensure meaningful progress. The plan also outlines instructional methods, tools, and accommodations to support the student. Importantly, the IPP is not static—it must be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the student’s development and evolving needs. When changes like moving schools or transitioning grades occur, the IPP also helps with planning and preparation.

The Role of an Educational Strategist

Understanding an IPP is essential for parents who want to advocate effectively for their child. At Shelly Qualtieri & Associates, our Education Strategist supports families by demystifying the IPP process and offering hands-on, practical guidance. Working
closely with both parents and schools, the Strategist ensures that each plan is implemented with the student’s best interests in mind and that everyone involved is aligned on shared goals. From reviewing assessment reports and attending school
meetings to helping families clearly communicate their child’s needs, our Strategist plays a key role in fostering collaboration, clarity, and confidence.

We also understand that receiving news your child needs an IPP can be emotional. Some parents feel relief in having answers, while others feel confused or overwhelmed by what this means for their child’s future. It is common to feel unsure of where to start, especially if the language in the plan or reports is unfamiliar. Many parents don’t know they can (and should) play a key role in shaping the IPP, helping to ensure consistency between home and school, and tracking progress.

Holistic Support at Shelly Qualtieri & Associates

This is where our team steps in to provide guidance, advocacy, and reassurance. At Shelly Qualtieri & Associates, we not only have experienced Education Strategists, but also Registered Psychologist who can conduct Psycho-Educational and Social-
Emotional Assessments. These Assessments provide important insights into how a child learns, thinks, and manages emotional or behavioural challenges. They can be an essential component in diagnosing learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, or other concerns. More importantly, they help shape a clearer picture of what supports a child may require.

Once the Assessment is complete, our Education Strategist helps interpret the results and uses them to inform the IPP process. We work hand-in-hand with families to build strong advocacy skills, support communication with school teams, and ensure appropriate accommodations are in place. The combination of psychological insight and strategic educational planning provides families with a holistic level of support that is often hard to find.

We know that it can be incredibly hard for families to struggle in silence—watching their child fall behind, feel misunderstood, or lose confidence without realizing an IPP might be the key to unlocking support. But the good news is that once a family knows, they can begin to advocate. And once they advocate, the path forward often becomes clearer. With the right support, your child can begin to see their own strengths, believe in their abilities, and begin to build a sense of confidence that can change the trajectory of their learning journey.

To connect with our Educational Strategist, please visit this link to book an appointment.