EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES – Special Education
Abbotsford Christian School believes that all students, regardless of their physical, academic, social and emotional needs, have an essential role to play in the school community. They are all to be valued as members of the Body of Christ. On the basis of this belief, an inclusive model of education has been set up whereby all students are educated with their same-aged peers in regular classrooms as much as possible. Educational Support Services have been established to assist teachers in providing appropriate inclusive education for students with differing needs.
The Special Education Program serves those students eligible for funding under the provincial independent schools program. These students have specific needs such as hearing loss, developmental delay, serious illnesses, cerebral palsy, autism, behavioural needs, medically diagnosed social and emotional needs, etc.
As applications for admission to the school come in, any applications that indicate a need for special education will be discussed (by the principal) with the Special Education Coordinator. All special education applications and supporting documentation will normally be in place by February 28. The number of students at each campus and in each grade must be taken into account. The processing of student applications and providing appropriate services and accommodations for new students with special education needs will be financed through the special education budget. Parents will be part of this intake process, and will be made aware as early as possible in the process, if the school is unable to supply the required services. The principal will direct the admission process and be the main contact with the parents.
Classroom teachers who notice students who have specific learning needs will discuss this with the appropriate coordinator. If testing seems to be required, this will be organized by the coordinator. If an application for special education funding is indicated, the coordinators will collaborate on the application process, the initial IEP and putting support in place.
Students in this program are served by the classroom teacher, an assistant (if needed), and a Special Education Coordinator.
For more information please contact the Elementary Special Education Coordinator
Wendy Enns
wenns@abbotsfordchristian.com
(604) 755-1891 ext. 1124
