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 Middle School Special Education Coordinator
Karen Williams
kwilliams@abbotsfordchristian.com
(604) 755-1891 ext. 2118
