The important role of Educational (Program) Assistants

The role of Educational (Program) Assistants is vital to the success of children and youth requiring special assistance at school.

With the potential upcoming School Support Worker strike in Nova Scotia, Helix is highlighting the work of EPAs, and how the strike could impact students.

Adult woman sitting beside and assisting a young girl in a classroom setting.

What is an EPA/EA?

Full title: Education Program Assistant/Education Assistant
EPAs/EAs primarily support teachers and offer hands-on assistance to students.
EPA/EAs assist beyond academic needs, providing behavioural, physical and emotional support for children/youth.

Potential School Support Worker strike in Nova Scotia

Timeline: The strike could begin as soon as this Monday (November 2, 2026).
How many workers would be affected: 5,500+ school support workers represented by CUPE. This number includes Early Childhood Educators (ECEs), pre-primary staff, custodians, school bus drivers, cafeteria staff and library specialists.
Reason for potential strike: Wage increase (of at least $3.50/hr over four years) to allow lowest-paid members to make a liveable minimum of $24/hr.

How would the strike impact students?

Pre-primary programs would be paused.
Some bus routes/service may be impacted.
Students dependant on full-time EPA support may need to shift to online/home learning if a strike occurs.

The importance of Educational (Program) Assistants

For students requiring special assistance in the classroom, EPAs are essential. With many classrooms over or nearing full capacity, EPAs provide individualized support to students who may otherwise fall through the cracks.

EPAs are critical for making academic concepts more manageable for students, assisting with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and providing critical academic, emotional and socio-emotional support.

According to an article from Sprott Shaw College, EPAs: