Academic Resource

Mission Statement

In the Cardinal Ambrozic Special Education Department, we strive to provide a safe and supportive learning environment where students are part of an inclusive community and are encouraged and challenged to meet their full potential with the support of compassionate and caring educators.

Faith

Programs

Academic Resource Department (ARD):

The Academic Resource Department provides special education services to ensure all students receive an equitable and engaging education that meets their diverse learning needs.

Students who receive ARD support have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) which outlines the student's unique learning profile, their academic needs, and the accommodations they may access so that they are able to reach their full potential. An academic resource teacher is assigned to each student who in turn supports their educational journey through managing the IEP, monitoring academic progress, supporting transitions, and meeting with the student and their families to review, evaluate, and make recommendations. Students who receive services through ARD have access to the academic resource room, a drop-in centre open during school hours, where students can work in a quiet space, access technology, or receive help with their school work. Our aim in the Academic Resource Department is to help students recognize their interests, goals and abilities while developing their self-advocacy skills so that they may achieve the success they desire.

Planning for Independence Program (PIP):

The Planning for Independence Program is a 7 year program designed for students with a developmental disability. Students are enrolled in a variety of Alternative Curriculum Courses with the opportunity for inclusion and integration classes, as well as Work Experience as appropriate to the students' individual goals. Upon completion of the Planning for Independence Program, students earn a Certificate of Accomplishment and are prepared for a variety of post secondary pathways including day programs, volunteer and work experience, community integration opportunities and continuing education experiences.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Diploma Support Program:

The ASD Diploma Support Program supports students who have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The program is a 5-year, regionally based program that is accessed through a referral/application process. Students in the program work towards achieving their Ontario Secondary School Diploma while striving towards developing academic, social and life skills as well as organizational supports through the form of a resource class integrated into their timetable. Students also have access to the resource classroom to provide a quiet and supportive alternative work environment.

With guidance from the program's Special Education Resource Teachers, Educational Resource Workers and a program specific Child and Youth Worker, students are able to build upon their social skills, self-advocacy skills on their road to adulthood. In the fourth and fifth year of the program, students engage in Cooperative Education experience s where they are able to develop their employability skills to assist with their success in the future.