Learning Support Program

Unlocking students’ full potential and supporting students to help them discover their God-given gifts

As part of Student Services, the Learning Support Program is an integral part of Hamilton District Christian High. Our goal is to help all students discover their God-given gifts and develop their unique skills so that they can achieve their personal goals and serve their communities in meaningful ways. Key areas where students receive support include receiving accommodations and having access to Learning Support Workers. Our multidisciplinary Learning Support Team has training and expertise in disciplines of academic, mental, social and physical support. Team members collaborate with teachers to develop strategies and procedures that reinforce the development of academic and social skills in students. The role of learning support workers varies according to classroom dynamics and the learning requirements of the students. Regular meetings and check-ins with teachers provide planning and feedback necessary to best support students. Learning Equity: We strive to provide equity for students with identified challenges to actively participate in and demonstrate learning. In partnership with the student, the parents, and the school, we support students’ development of sound academic skills and positive social habits. Individual Education Plan: Considering the recommendations provided by previous school records and health professionals, our coordinator will outline information about the student’s strengths and needs through an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Suggestions for accommodations that support the student will follow.

Learning Accommodations: Accommodations are designed to help equalize their academic environment and do not substantially change the instructional level, the content, or the performance criteria of the curriculum. Accommodations are: ● determined in coordination with recommendations provided from previous school records, psychologists, and other health professionals; ● intended to support the student’s development of positive, healthy learning habits; ● provided with goal of developing academic independence and personal self-advocacy in preparation for their adult pathway; and ● implemented in partnership with the student, the parent and the school.

For more information or to discuss your child’s individual needs, please contact Aline Koiter, Learning Coordinator, at akoiter@hdch.org 905.648.6655 x 106.

PROGRAM & COURSE INFORMATION

Introduction

The information included in this calendar is designed to help you make informed choices for your high school program. You are encouraged to research your secondary, post-secondary, and career options, and, in consultation with the Student Services department and your family, to prayerfully develop a four year plan. As you develop your educational roadmap, it may be helpful to remember the following:

1. Here’s Your Help! – You are not alone in your decision-making process. The guidance staff, your family, the teaching staff, and your community are committed to helping you make positive, informed choices. Seek the Lord’s will in your educational and career directions – every vocation can be a response to the Lord’s call for service to Him. 2. Use Your Gifts – Education is not simply a means to an end. In other words, education is not just about getting to the next step or about getting that good job. You are encouraged to take courses which interest you, which help to develop the talents with which the

Lord had blessed you, and which help you to develop competence, reflection, compassion, resilience, and creativity. 3. Prerequisites – Some courses have prerequisites – carefully consider the prerequisites for each course. They are listed in the course description section of the calendar. 4. University Admission – Most university programs require 6 4U/M courses as a minimum admissions standard. Most science, engineering, design, and math programs have additional, specific requirements. Research on specific programs admission requirements is important. 5. College Admission – Many college and apprenticeship programs also have specific admissions expectations. Again, research is vital. Admissions requirements for colleges, universities, Bible colleges, and apprenticeships can be obtained from the institution concerned, and information can always be found in the Student Services office. 6. Co-op – HDCH has a successful co-operative education program. In order to have enough space for a co-op placement you need to plan carefully in order to meet other diploma and program admission requirements. Remember that co-op takes up at least two periods in your daily schedule.