Functional Academics
The Functional Academics program is a comprehensive and structured program designed to provide students with the tools, strategies and support they need to navigate their lives with greater independence. While core academic skills continue to be important, this program focuses on meaningful skill acquisition and cultivating a wide range of skills that are crucial for everyday life. In this inclusive environment, our educators empower students to become more confident and self-reliant, emphasizing each individuals’ potential for growth and independence.
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This program is ideal for students Grade 4-8 whom life and vocational skills are of priority.
What to expect:
Our Functional Curriculum is a well-rounded curriculum that focuses on a wide range of skill areas. Students practice planning and time management skills throughout the day as they follow the daily schedule, which includes fitness activities, academics, independent work, cooking, cleaning, leisure activities and recess. Students learn math and literacy skills that are functional to their daily lives, build social skills, develop self-compassion and mindfulness practices, and learn how to engage in independent and group leisure activities. Opportunities are created for students to practice their skills in real-life and simulated situations.
Evidence-based ABA strategies are incorporated into the entire day and are used to optimize the learning environment and motivate the students. Teachers use group goal setting to teach students how to work with others towards a goal, like a pizza or dance party!
The smaller-group ratio allows our educators to give each student the individualized guidance and support they need to flourish.
This program takes a holistic approach to teaching. Learning goals are developed to suit each students’ unique strengths, challenges and potential. Our educators encourage self-expression, emotional well-being and independence.
Goals and Objectives:
Our team of educators and behaviour analysts develop learning plans for each student, which outline the goals and learning objectives that suit their unique learning needs. Potential goals and objectives for students in the Functional Academics program may be related to:
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Literacy skills (i.e. phonics, reading, writing, language comprehension)
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Math skills (i.e. numeracy, measurement, time, calendar, temperature, financial skills)
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Technology
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Time management and planning
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Physical education
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Social skills (i.e. engaging with peers, self-awareness, perspective taking
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Tolerance, self-management, emotional regulation and safety
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Communication
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Leisure skills (i.e. engaging in independent or social card games, board games, crafts etc.)
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Self-care skills, promoting independence in daily living skills, including meal preparation, personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, eating and toileting
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SLP and Occupational Therapy goals are integrated into programs goals as needed
Details:
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​The Functional Academics program runs from the beginning of September to the end of June with PD days, holidays and March Break closures. Progress reports are sent home in November, and report cards in February and June.
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Enrolment remains open throughout the academic year so students can join at any point. Students are encouraged to join our Summer Program between academic years.
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Before and and After Care is available for those who require flexible pick-up and/or drop-off between 8am and 5pm.
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The Functional Academics program is supervised by a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).
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Fees for this program can be covered using OAP Funding (i.e. Access OAP, childhood budgets, Interim one-time funding etc.), third-party insurance, private or charitable funds.
Getting started is as easy as...
1
Complete our fast and easy online intake form by clicking "Get Started" below.
2
Connect with a member of our Clinical Team during a virtual Admission Meeting.
3
Visit Aspire for a tour of our campus and an opportunity for us to get to know your child. Discuss program placement and a plan for enrolment.
