We provide excellent programming for students with exceptional and special needs. Every student has unique needs, so we work with students, parents and community organizations to personalize the support for each child.
Complex needs describes students with life-long impairments that are attributable to mental, neurological and/or physical disabilities. An innumerable variety of complex conditions and needs exist. We offer programming and supports for students diagnosed with conditions which have a mild to severe impact on cognitive, academic and adaptive functioning.
At the CBE, complex needs refers to students diagnosed with:
- Cognitive developmental disabilities
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
- Physical disabilities/special health needs
Specialized classes may be appropriate options for students with complex needs. Curriculum modifications and accommodations are implemented in any of our programs based on the individual needs of each student.
ACCESS Program
ACCESS III Teacher | Mr. C. Brown
The Attitude, Community Competence, Elements (of Academic Curriculum), Social Skills (ACCESS) program is for junior and senior high age students with moderate to severe cognitive disabilities. The goal of the ACCESS program is to prepare students for transition to adult life in the community. The curriculum includes development of communication skills, functional language arts and mathematics skills, social skills, community awareness, and pre-vocational abilities. Integration within the community school classes is encouraged when possible.
A modified curriculum is implemented based on the individual needs of each student. Instructional accommodations may include the use of assistive technology, augmentative communication systems, and individual and small group instruction. There are 8 to 10 students in each class along with two to three program staff. Program staff includes one teacher and one to two education assistants, depending upon the complexity of the needs of the individual students.
Adapted Learning Program
Program Teacher | Mrs. L. Penny
The goal of the Adapted Learning Program at Clarence Sansom is to provide students with supported vocational opportunities and integration with the school community. The curriculum includes the development of literacy, numeracy, and communication skills with inclusion in complementary subjects, clubs, sports, and special events as appropriate.
Other teaching areas are functional living, relationships, self-regulation,social interaction, leisure skills, and vocational skills. Students are integrated into option classes each semester with support from an education assistant.
Students have opportunities to learn off-site within the community with trips to the local Co-op, public library, and Village Square Leisure Centre. Some students may also participate in off-campus field trips with their complementary options throughout the school year.
