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Ontario law requires every school board to provide special education supports for children with autism. This guide covers IEP rights, the IPRC process, major board programs, and how to advocate effectively for your child.
Last updated: March 2026
IEP for every child with ASD
Across Ontario with SPED programs
Public special education
Ontario's Education Act (Regulation 181/98) requires every school board to identify and support exceptional pupils, including those with autism spectrum disorder. The two main processes are the IPRC (Identification, Placement and Review Committee) and the IEP (Individual Education Plan).
Structured Learning classrooms across Toronto. Dedicated autism itinerant teachers and EA supports. Offers ASD-specific programming from JK through Grade 12.
ASD intensive support programs, Communication and Life Skills classes. Partners with local agencies for transition planning.
Intensive Support Programs (ISP) for students with ASD across Brampton, Mississauga, and Caledon. Extensive EA staffing and sensory resource rooms.
Autism Communication Classes and ASD resource teacher model. Strong transition supports from elementary to secondary.
Specialized programs including Community Living Skills and ASD-focused classrooms in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo.
Life Skills and autism-specific programs. Collaborative partnerships with McMaster Children's Hospital for student support.
Many students with autism receive dedicated or shared EA support to assist with communication, self-regulation, and classroom participation.
Small class sizes with visual schedules, predictable routines, and ASD-trained teachers for students with higher support needs.
Many schools provide designated sensory spaces with calming tools. These can be written into an IEP as a formal accommodation.
AAC devices, speech-to-text tools, and visual communication supports are available and can be mandated through the IEP process.
Every child identified as exceptional — including those with autism — has a legal right to an IEP. Even without a formal IPRC identification, schools can and should provide IEP-level supports under the Ontario Human Rights Code duty to accommodate.
Request an IEP meeting in writing at any time — no waiting for annual review.
Bring a support person, advocate, or translator to any IPRC or IEP meeting.
Receive a copy of the IEP and any IPRC decisions in writing.
Disagree with placement decisions and appeal to a Special Education Appeal Board.
Request an independent educational assessment if you disagree with board assessments.