As educators and administrators, ensuring that every student receives the support they need is paramount. In Manitoba, Special Needs Categorical Funding provides essential financial resources to help schools support students with significant needs. Here's a simplified guide to understanding the criteria and application process for Level 2 and Level 3 funding.
Funding Levels Explained
Level 2 Support - $9,500 per student
Level 2 funding is designated for students who require significant support for a major portion of the school day. Here are the main criteria:
- MH2: Students with two or more severe disabilities requiring extensive programming beyond usual educational offerings.
- ASD2: Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) facing significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges.
- HOH2: Students with permanent bilateral moderate to severe hearing loss needing significant adaptations.
- VI2: Students with severe vision impairments requiring extensive learning environment adaptations.
- EBD2: Students with severe emotional/behavioral disorders requiring specialized programming and support.
- OTH2: Students with other severe needs not fitting into the above categories.
Level 3 Support - $21,130 per student
Level 3 funding is for students needing intensive support throughout the entire school day, significantly beyond Level 2 criteria:
- MH3: Students with profound multiple disabilities needing extensive individualized programming.
- ASD3: Students with severe ASD requiring intensive support and programming.
- HOH3: Students with profound hearing loss needing extensive adaptations and support.
- VI3: Students with severe vision impairments needing continuous adaptations and support.
- EBD3: Students with profound emotional/behavioral disorders requiring coordinated multi-agency support.
Application Process
Applications for Level 2 and Level 3 funding are reviewed individually by Manitoba Education and Early Childhood Learning. The process involves:
- Identifying students who meet the criteria.
- Completing and submitting applications to the Funding Review Team.
- Providing detailed information about the student's needs and required supports.
For Level 3 EBD funding, a comprehensive plan known as a Circle of Care or Wraparound Plan must be developed, detailing the coordinated services provided by the school and external agencies.
Unified Referral and Intake System (URIS) Group A Funding
URIS funding supports students requiring complex medical procedures performed by a registered nurse. Applications must include:
- Special Needs Categorical Grant Level 3 Funding Application
- URIS Application Form
- Individual Health Care Plan
For more detailed information, please follow this link.
