Inclusive Education and Student Support Services

The GFSS Bike Shop is a counseling activity program. Students are referred to the program through School Based Team, Student Services Team, direct Teacher referral and self-referral.

The focus of the program is to build self-esteem, support meaningful participation in a pro-social environment and to further a sense of belonging. Involvement can be individualized to support a student’s mental health, interpersonal development or IEP goals. While most students’ participation is directly connected to the above support goals, some students are motivated to attend to develop mentorship and leadership skills or out of interest in bicycle mechanics. The program is generally group/peer based. However, some students prefer to set appointments individually.

The CYCW promotes behavioural change and personal growth in children and adolescents who exhibit social and emotional difficulties and assists these students to achieve success within the school setting and in the community. Program(s) is/are developed in consultation with the Counsellor and the classroom teacher under the direction of the principal or designate. The CYCW services are provided under the support of the school counsellor and is an extension of the counselling caseload. Scheduling of assignments will be determined by the school principal and the School-based Team according to students’ needs.

Educational Assistants are assigned to schools with students with special needs. They reinforce learning and behavioural objectives as set out in the curriculum and Individual Education Plans (IEP). EAs help to implement adaptations and special services as needed for the student.

EAs aid specific students identified as having need of support to access learning opportunities. EAs may aid student(s) in all aspects of their instructional program as outlined in an IEP. EAs work under the direction of the classroom teacher and/or school-based resource teacher and is responsible to the school Principal and/or District Principal of Student Support Services. Assignment of time is determined by the principal and the School-Based Team.

The Links Centre offers programs for students in an alternate setting that is designed to meet the educational, social, and emotional needs of students. It offers independent, self-paced learning with direct support from the teacher and educational assistants. These courses may be offered through our on-line Moodle program or personalized to meet the student’s learning needs and still meet the course’s ministry requirements.

The Centre embraces the principles of the Circle of courage: belonging, mastery, generosity, and independence. Students who have taken courses in the Links Centre appreciate the opportunity to work at their own pace in a quieter and accommodating setting that encourages a collaborative and supportive classroom while attending their other classes in the building.