Learning Strategies (GLE) Courses

Each week GLE students are given a learning task that are completed in class during the week.  The tasks are designed to improve literacy, numercy, organization and study skills so that students can be successful in their courses.  Topics are high interest and focus on such things as school issues, current events and career exploration. The remainder of the class time is spent on supporting students’ other course work. Students must have an IEP to register for GLE 1OI and GLE 2OI.

Fast Forward – Magnet Program

Fast Forward is a unique diploma granting program (OSSD) focusing on preparing students for the workplace. The program is designed to develop students’ literacy and numeracy skills in addition to their learning and employability skills necessary to be successful in a work environment. Students’ preparation for employment includes a variety of opportunities for work-related learning experiences including earning industry recognized certificates.

The Fast Forward Program meets the needs of a student who has:
• Has struggled with literacy and numeracy for a significant period of time;
• Is academically 2-4 years out of phase;
• Has had significant accommodations or modifications to their elementary school program;

Students in the Fast Forward program benefit from the opportunity to:
• Improve their reading, writing and mathematical skills and gain greater confidence as a learner
• Develop their learning skills and employability skills and build an Employment Portfolio
• Participate in work-related learning experiences (e.g. Co-op, Career Days, Employment Fair, team-building activities, etc.)

To make an application to the Fast Forward program, contact your current school’s Guidance Counsellor, SERT or Administrator.

Alternative Continuum of Education (ACE) Overview

Many students who are identified as Intellectual (Developmental Disability/ Mild Intellectual Disability) through the IPRC process can be successfully supported in their home school. For some students to develop and reach their full potential, an alternative program to the Ontario curriculum with an alternative plan for graduation may be required. The Alternative Continuum of Education (ACE) program meets the needs of exceptional students who require an alternative program at the elementary and secondary levels.

The ACE program is a non-credit program leading to a Certificate of Accomplishment. As an alternative to Ontario curriculum, the program does not lead to an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

Within the ACE program, students will receive:

  • A small ratio setting
  • Alternative curriculum (with a functional skills focus)
  • Alternative Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  • Alternative Program Report Card

An IEP is developed to align with each individual student’s academic, personal, social and transitional needs. A focus on functional skills instruction is embedded in the alternative curriculum to promote students’ quality of life as they prepare to enter the adult community.

Extension Opportunities for Intellectual Giftedness

Whenever possible, classroom teachers are encouraged to provide opportunities for gifted students to try innovative methods. Students are encouraged to participate in a wide variety of school activities that develop passion for a subject area and enrich the learning experience.

Some unique opportunities facilitated by groups in the larger community are: Waterloo Unlimited,  Shad Valley, AP programs, Queen’s University Enrichment Program, University of Toronto Enrichment, and Computer Science Camps. Information regarding these enrichment opportunities can be provided by the community group coordinator directly.