05-01-2025, https://epsb.ca/programs/specializedprogramming/connectionsopportunity/factsheet/

Connections/Opportunity

Connections/Opportunity programming assists students with mild cognitive disabilities and severe behavioural challenges.

Goals

Develop and demonstrate positive behaviour and social skills
Achieve academic goals
Develop employment and independent living skills

Benefits

Improved social skills
Improved ability to express thoughts and feelings in appropriate ways
Improved ability to manage aggression or problematic behaviour
Improved ability to manage everyday tasks, stay healthy and safe

Program delivery

Flexible instruction based on student needs and abilities
Ongoing instruction in developing anger management and social skills
Structured classroom environment
Predictable and clearly articulated routines, procedures, expectations and schedules
Close and constant adult supervision
Smaller classes for more targeted instruction
Work and volunteer opportunities for older students to build career-related skills

Eligibility

Students must be in Grades 4 to 9 with severe emotional and behavioural challenges, and a clinical diagnosis.

Current students: Contact your child’s school for information about eligibility and specialized programming.
New to Edmonton Public Schools: Use the Find a School tool to find your designated school and contact the principal.

Alberta curriculum

All Edmonton Public Schools programming is based on curriculum determined by Alberta Education. Students enrolled in Connections/Opportunity will receive the same high-quality education offered in all of our programs.

Transportation

Most schools offering specialized programming have some yellow busing options available. For more information about busing, contact your child’s school or call Student Transportation at 780-429-8585.

05-01-2025, https://epsb.ca/programs/specializedprogramming/connectionsopportunity/factsheet/