​​​Regular Program at the CBE

Even though most of our schools offer a regular program, no two are quite the same. All schools teach according to Alberta Education’s mandated curriculum, however a school’s focus, optional courses and school activities are as unique as every school.​​​

Program, Focus & Approach

Communication, Sensory and Social Interaction (CSSI)

Ted Harrison School also provides a CSSI class. CSSI classes provide intensive supports and services to students in Grades 1 – 12 who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and who have moderate to severe cognitive disabilities, moderate to severe communication delays and moderate to severe adaptive functioning delays. Program emphasis is on developing students’ abilities to be as independent as possible in their home, school, and community through the development of communication, regulation, functional living, independence and academic skills. 

Personalized Learning Program (PLP)

PLP classes are for students in Grades 4 – 12 who have been identified with mild or moderate cognitive developmental disabilities (FSIQ 50-70 +/- 5) and mild to moderate adaptive functioning delays. Students may have co-occurring diagnosis such as mild cognitive disability and ADHD or ASD. The goal of PLP is to prepare students for adult life and to teach foundational skills to support employment, volunteering and in some cases enrollment in certificated community education programs.

Homework Policy

We recognize meaningful, carefully-planned homework can support student success and be complementary part of a student’s overall learning program. The daily learning experiences are what form the opportunities for collective learning with teachers and peers and is foundational in the construction of knowledge. Work in class should be relevant, rich and rigorous – we emphasize habits that encourage efficiency and productivity in school.

Teacher time and energy is spent in the designing and delivery of curriculum rather than having time detracted for review or making of homework assignments. In designing homework, teachers apply the following principles:

  • Plan and differentiate assignments in order to ensure students are able to complete homework independently or with minimal support.
  • Strive to identify interesting, engaging learning tasks for homework assignments.
  • Coordinate homework assignments with other staff to identify best practices related to homework as a complement to learning and to avoid potential overload for the student at any one time.
  • Consider and be sensitive to the impact of homework on family life and balance.
  • The benefits of homework with respect for the value of family time.
  • Holidays are free of school-related assignments.
  • Parents are encouraged to provide enriching, educational experiences at home for their children. 
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​​Middle Years at the CBE

Middle years learning refers to education offered to students between the ages of 10-15. These years are critical in keeping our students on the path to high school completion and their career futures. Keys for student success include: participating in hands-on, purposeful and relevant learning; creating positive relationships with peers, teachers and other adults; and being actively involved in the community and feeling supported by family, businesses and other organizations that surround them.

Learn more about our students in their middle years, including how their learning will change and how you can support your child, visit the CBE website.​

​​​​Exploring Career Choices

For Grades 5 to 9 at the CBE, we offer Career & Technology Foundations (CTF). This is an inquiry-based, hands-on program that focuses on essential skills common to occupational areas, and our students personalize their learning based on their interests and passions.​​​