Saskatchewan’s Early Learning Intensive Support (ELIS) Program has enhanced the learning and development of more than 500 Prekindergarten-aged children since it was piloted in 2018. Serving children who require intensive supports, the program started in Regina and Saskatoon, and was expanded in 2019 and 2020 to include the communities of Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Yorkton and North Battleford.
“Our government is pleased to continue to support this essential program for our youngest learners,” Education Minister Dustin Duncan said. “This investment will enhance the essential Prekindergarten learning environment for nearly 250 more students province-wide.”
The Government of Saskatchewan is providing more than $3 million to the ELIS Program for the 2021-22 school year through the Canada-Saskatchewan Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
This program supports the Saskatchewan Disability Strategy by expanding early learning programming to assist young children experiencing disability. It focuses on the strengths, needs and interests of individual students and supports their requirements, while eliminating learning barriers. to receive a good start on their learning and development.
“Early learning supports are critical for the success of all our students. The ELIS program allows us to address additional needs of students earlier, setting them up for success,” Regina Catholic Schools Superintendent of Education Services Joanna Landry said. “It is a blessing to receive support for these students prior to starting Kindergarten. We believe in equity, and we believe in inclusion. Our staff have embraced this program, and the students are an important part of our school communities.”
Twenty-three Saskatchewan school divisions are offering the program in 2021-22. Interested families are encouraged to submit an application to their local school division for consideration.