Our approach to inclusive education brings together diverse supports for both individual students and entire classrooms.
All schools have access to the Division’s team of Specialized Learning Supports (SLS) consultants. SLS consultants work with principals, staff and families to determine the services and supports that will best help each student succeed, whether in a regular classroom or specialized program.
Once supports have been determined, the consultants work with school staff to:
help plan, adapt or modify students’ programming
support the transitions between grades and programs
create an inclusive learning environment
WHAT DO SPECIALIZED LEARNING SUPPORTS LOOK LIKE?
Watch our video to learn more about how SLS consultants support students
HOW ARE STUDENTS SUPPORTED?
Every Division school is supported by a dedicated team of consultants. This means students receive the same level of service, no matter where they attend school or what program they’re enrolled in.
SLS consultants provide services in the areas of:
speech and language
occupational therapy
physical therapy and adapted physical education
educational and/or behavioural programming
deaf and hard of hearing
educational audiology
vision impairment
orientation and mobility
assistive technology for learning
school psychology
reading specialists
social work or school family liaison
mental health
English as a second language (ESL) or English language learning (ELL) support
intercultural support
sexual orientation and gender identity (LGBTIQ2+)
BRINGING CONSULTANTS INTO THE CLASSROOM
Once your child’s needs have been determined, your child’s teacher can make a request for additional support.
ASSESSMENTS AND CONSULTATIONS
ONE-ON-ONE ASSESSMENTS
Consultants may complete an assessment to better understand your child’s abilities and areas for growth. Parental consent is required.
Example If a student has a language delay, a speech language pathologist may observe how they learn in the classroom. A speech language pathologist may also spend one-on-one time with the student reading a book or playing a game together to understand their strengths and challenges.
CLASSROOM CONSULTATIONS
Consultants may complete a classroom consultation by working collaboratively with the classroom teacher to find ways to create a supportive learning environment. Parental consent is not required.
Example A consultant may attend class to observe a group of students who may have learning or behavioural needs. Based on the observations, the consultant can work collaboratively with the teacher to recommend strategies and resources that would benefit all students in the class.
QUESTIONS
As an important member of your child’s learning team, you have an important role to play in making decisions about your child’s education.
If you have questions about the services provided or how consultants can support your child’s needs, talk to your child’s teacher or school principal.
