IPP & Student Support Plans | Implementation Support Calgary
Takeaway: Understanding what an IPP (Individualized Program Plan) entails is important for both parents and students to ensure educational success. Parents often seek support and resources when implementing an IPP for their child, including suggestions and examples as well as advice on customizing IPPs to meet their child's unique needs. It's also important for parents to be aware of their educational rights, the purpose and the legal aspects of IPPs, ensuring their child receives the appropriate support. Effective collaboration and communication between teachers, parents, and students are key to monitoring, reviewing, and updating IPPs, ensuring that the plan evolves efficiently and effectively with the student's progress.

Understanding Individualized Program Plans (IPPs)
An Individualized Program Plan (IPP) is a tailored educational plan designed to address the unique needs, strengths, and goals of a child with special learning requirements. Whether your child has a learning disability, developmental delay, or another specific need, an IPP provides a structured roadmap to support their academic and personal growth. By collaborating with educators, specialists, and parents, IPPs ensure that your child receives personalized interventions and accommodations to thrive in their learning environment.
If you're wondering, "What is an Individualized Program Plan?", think of it as a dynamic document that evolves with your child's progress. It includes measurable goals, tailored strategies, and regular assessments to monitor achievements. Understanding how to create an IPP for your child begins with open communication. Parents should work closely with teachers and support staff during meetings to identify your child’s strengths and challenges. Together, you can set effective IPP goals such as enhancing reading comprehension, developing social skills, or improving executive functioning.
Examples of successful IPP goals include:
- Improving math problem-solving skills by practicing with manipulatives and visual aids.
- Developing communication abilities through speech therapy sessions.
- Enhancing focus and attention with tailored behavioral strategies in the classroom.
By staying involved, asking questions, and regularly reviewing the plan, you ensure your child receives the customized support they need for success. For more guidance, explore local and online resources tailored to special education and IPP development.
Navigating the school system when your child or teen has an IPP or learning disability can be overwhelming and confusing.
At Shelly Qualtieri and Associates, we offer comprehensive support to help you every step of the way. Through our Psychoeducational Assessment Reviews, we provide clear explanations and actionable recommendations, ensuring you understand your child's unique needs.
Our Parent Support services guide you through the complexities of the education system, making it easier to advocate for your child. With our advocacy assistance, we work collaboratively with you and the school to implement tailored Individual Program Plans (IPPs) that truly meet your child's needs.
By connecting with us, you gain expert guidance and a dedicated partner, empowering you to be the best advocate for your child’s education and ensuring they have the support they need to succeed.
Reach out to learn more.
What are my child’s rights for an IPP?
In Alberta, every child with special learning needs has the right to an Individualized Program Plan (IPP), a legally mandated document designed to provide personalized educational support. Under Alberta’s Education Act, schools are required to develop an IPP for students who need accommodations, modifications, or specialized learning strategies.
Parents play a critical role in this process—they have the right to participate in the development, approval, and ongoing review of their child’s IPP to ensure it effectively meets their needs. Additionally, schools must obtain informed written consent from parents, making it essential that parents fully understand the goals, strategies, and resources outlined in the plan. However, many parents find the IPP process overwhelming due to the complex educational terminology, unfamiliar legal requirements, and difficulty ensuring that the school properly implements the plan. This is where Shelly Qualtieri & Associates steps in to support families from start to finish.
How Our Education Strategist Supports Families with IPPs
We offer expert guidance in navigating the IPP process, ensuring that parents are well-informed and empowered to advocate for their child. Our Education Strategist provides step-by-step support, from writing and reviewing the IPP to ensuring its successful implementation in schools.
Here’s how we help:
1. Initial Consultation & Understanding Your Child’s Needs: We start with an in-depth interview to discuss your child’s strengths, challenges, and existing school accommodations. We help parents understand their rights under Alberta’s education policies and what supports their child is entitled to in a school setting.
2. Reviewing & Analyzing Documentation: Our strategist carefully reviews all relevant documents, including previous IPPs, psychoeducational assessments, and school reports to identify gaps or areas for improvement. This review ensures that the new IPP will be comprehensive, realistic, and tailored to the student’s needs.
3. Writing & Developing a Strong IPP: We take care of the complex process of writing and structuring the IPP, ensuring it includes clear, measurable goals aligned with Alberta’s educational guidelines. This stage involves 4 hours of planning and preparation, during which we craft an IPP that outlines specific accommodations, modifications, and learning strategies designed to help your child succeed.
4. Implementing the IPP & School Support: We don’t just stop at writing the IPP—we also help ensure that schools properly implement it. Our strategist can attend school meetings to advocate for your child, ensuring that teachers and administrators fully understand and follow through on the plan.
5. Final Review & Ongoing Parent Support: After implementation, we meet with parents for a follow-up session to review the process, answer questions, and provide guidance on how to monitor progress and request changes if necessary.