Cooperation Agreement Between the Canary Islands Education Department and APANATE to Support Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Cooperation Agreement Between Canary Islands' Education Department and APANATE
Overview
The Canary Islands' Education Department has published a new cooperation agreement with the autism support organization APANATE. Signed on June 27, 2025, the deal aims to enhance inclusive education for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in public schools in Tenerife.
Objectives and Activities
- Provide trained volunteers from APANATE to support students with ASD.
- Assist teachers in the classroom.
- Promote extracurricular activities tailored to the needs of children with ASD.
Legal and Regional Framework
This collaboration aligns with Spain’s broader legal framework emphasizing:
- Inclusive education
- Non-discrimination
- Equal opportunities
It also adheres to regional laws encouraging:
- Volunteer participation
- Fostering community involvement in education
Safeguarding Measures
The agreement emphasizes safeguarding measures, including:
- Background checks for volunteers
- Clear roles to prevent any form of substitute employment
These measures ensure that support remains supplementary.
Financial Aspects
- Funding is to be covered by APANATE.
- There are no direct costs for the government.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- A dedicated follow-up committee will monitor progress over the four-year term.
- The committee promises ongoing evaluation and adjustments to improve outcomes.
Significance
This partnership signifies a strong step forward in building a more inclusive school system, giving children with ASD better access to quality education and social integration.
"This cooperation agreement reflects a shared commitment to advancing inclusion, community engagement, and the rights of vulnerable students across the Canary Islands."