Learning Support

The English as a Second Language (ESL) Program is made available to students who have had limited experience studying in a school that uses English as the language of instruction and assessment. It is recommended for students with less than two years of exposure to English language instruction.

The ESL Program focuses on the four areas of language acquisition for fluency and literacy: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. All ESL students are assessed using a variety of tools to determine their stages of development in these areas.  All students in the Grades 1 to 8 ESL Program are designated into either a Level 1 or Level 2 class.  The guideline for determining a students’ stage of development is based on Ontario Ministry of Education “STEP” Document criteria.

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In order to support student well-being, DSC has a staff of six professionals who:

• Provide individual and group counselling (self, teacher, parent referral)
• Organize well-being workshops for students and parents
• Host training workshops for teachers
• Support new student integration
• Manage the Wellness Studio for mindfulness workshops

DSC is committed to providing a safe learning environment for our students. Our health team provides on-site first aid and first responder support, works closely with the Student Support Team on medical-related issues, and coordinates immunizations. In addition, the Health Team hosts First Aid training courses for students and staff.

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Our ICT Educational Specialists work with students and teachers to support the use of technology in the classroom in order to enhance the learning experiences.  We want our students to be well equipped innovators and these values are guiding principles of our ICT department.

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