Alberta families are facing challenges ahead of an upcoming teacher strike, with parents of children with disabilities feeling the strain even more deeply. While after-school programs are offering extended hours, support provided under Alberta’s Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) does not cover care during school hours. This has led parents of children with disabilities to urgently seek specialized childcare, which can cost around $25 per hour.
Keltie Marshall, co-founder of Hold My Hand Alberta, a group advocating for children with disabilities, expressed concerns about the limited options available. Marshall and co-founder Shantel Mogos wrote to the FSCD program director to highlight the need for additional support.
To address the situation, the province announced financial assistance of $30 per day per child for parents of children aged 12 and under during the strike. However, families of middle and high school students with disabilities, requiring care during school hours, remain unsupported. The government has not committed to adjusting FSCD guidelines to accommodate these students.
Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides emphasized the focus on minimizing disruptions for families during the strike. While exploring ways to enhance support for families of children with complex needs, the province has not provided a clear plan for addressing the specific challenges faced by children with disabilities.
The Alberta Teachers’ Association plans to strike on October 6 if a settlement is not reached, following the rejection of a proposed deal by the majority of teachers. Despite ongoing discussions between the ATA and the government, the possibility of a strike looms, potentially becoming the first provincewide teacher strike in Alberta’s history.
Parents like Dave White, whose son has cerebral palsy, are grappling with the uncertainty of finding suitable care during the strike. The existing gaps in support are leaving families of students with disabilities with limited options, potentially forcing parents to take time off work. Trish Bowman, CEO of Inclusion Alberta, highlighted the financial strain and employment uncertainties faced by many families in this situation.
As the deadline approaches, concerns grow over the impact of the strike on children who rely on structured school environments for socialization and support. Families are calling for additional funding and flexibility in support programs to ensure the well-being of students with disabilities during this challenging period.