Direct answer
Autistic high school students in Ontario can participate in cooperative education (co-op) placements with appropriate accommodations. Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, co-op employers have a duty to accommodate disability. School boards must support the student's participation through the IEP, including workplace accommodations, job coaching, and modified placement structures. Co-op earns credits toward the OSSD and provides critical pre-employment experience for transition-age autistic youth.
Start with the short answer, then reveal deeper context where helpful.
Cooperative education placements should be included in the autistic student's transition plan as part of the IEP. Accommodations in the workplace may include: a job coach or EA accompanying the student initially, visual task lists and written instructions, a quiet break space, gradual introduction to workplace routines, and clear communication about expectations and feedback.
Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, co-op employers have the same duty to accommodate a student with a disability as they would for any employee. The school and student do not need to disclose the specific diagnosis, but must communicate the accommodations needed. Employers cannot refuse a co-op student solely because of their disability.
Cooperative education placements should be included in the autistic student's transition plan as part of the IEP. Accommodations in the workplace may include: a job coach or EA accompanying the student initially, visual task lists and written instructions, a quiet break space, gradual introduction to workplace routines, and clear communication about expectations and feedback.
The co-op teacher serves as the liaison between the student, school, and employer. They should educate the employer about autism accommodations (with the student's consent), conduct regular site visits, and adjust the placement structure as needed. Some students benefit from starting with fewer hours per week and gradually increasing. The placement should align with the student's interests and strengths.
Under the Ontario Human Rights Code, co-op employers have the same duty to accommodate a student with a disability as they would for any employee. The school and student do not need to disclose the specific diagnosis, but must communicate the accommodations needed. Employers cannot refuse a co-op student solely because of their disability.
Students should be actively involved in choosing their co-op placement. Interest inventories, workplace tours, and informational interviews help identify suitable placements. Organizations like Ontario Disability Employment Network and Ready, Willing and Able connect employers with autistic individuals. Some school boards have dedicated co-op coordinators for students with special needs who maintain relationships with accommodation-friendly employers.
Ontario Ministry
Ontario Ministry of Education — Policy/Program Memorandum 76A: Cooperative Education (2018)
OHRC
Ontario Human Rights Commission — Human Rights at Work (2008, updated 2014)
Transition planning from high school for autistic students in Ontario. Covers IEP transition plans, ODSP, post-secondary options, and Passport funding at age 18.
Legal employment rights and workplace accommodation for autistic adults in Ontario under the Human Rights Code, ESA, and AODA.
Ontario autistic children have legal rights to an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Learn what schools must provide under the Education Act and Ontario Regulation 181/98.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate