Elementary Learning Centre

Learning assistance for students in Grade 1 – 3 focuses on early reading and writing skills.  Specific programs such as The Reading Foundation's "Discover Reading Program", Nanci Bell's "Visualization and Verbalization Comprehension Programs," as well as components from other curriculum based phonics programs are used to aid in the development of these skills.

The primary focus for those students requiring learning assistance in Grades 4 - 6 is to provide subject support and integrate skill building and strategy development.  Students requiring extra academic support can be referred by their classroom teacher, Assistant Principal, and their parents.  The learning resource teacher may conduct formal and informal testing or the student may be referred for a psycho-educational assessment.  In consultation with the classroom teacher, an education program will be developed to suit the needs of the student, which may include writing skills, math skills, comprehension skills and subject support.  The learning resource teacher will use a direct instruction approach and work with individual students or provide small group instruction for two to three sessions per week.  End of term progress reports are provided and bi-annual IEP meetings are held to discuss the student's goals and progress.

Grade level teachers work closely with the Learning Centre teacher to ensure that areas of weakness are targeted. In turn, subject support or concept teaching is given when necessary and integrated into the student's program.

Informal testing is conducted throughout the year in order to accurately assess progress and make the necessary changes to a student's program. A Psycho-educational assessment may be necessary in order to determine more specifically how to help a struggling student.

Individual Educational Planning (IEP) reports are drawn up for each student. These reports identify the child's learning needs and alter as the child's learning needs change. All students who visit the LAC have an IEP.