Algonquin College Cuts Special Needs Program: Budget Crisis Hits Vulnerable Students
Algonquin College’s recent announcement to eliminate its Adult Assistance for Adults with Developmental Disabilities (AAADD) program by April 2026 has sent shockwaves through the Ottawa community. This decision, driven by severe budget cuts and a broader financial crisis impacting the college, leaves 73 students facing an uncertain future. The program, established in 1997, provided invaluable academic and social support, but the college cites a need to prioritize credentialed programs aligned with its mandate. This move highlights critical funding issues in post-secondary education for students with special needs. The lack of alternative programs and the potential for increased inequity in education are raising serious concerns among students, families, and advocates. Click to read the full story and learn how you can help.