2 Wembley Road, Toronto, Ontario, M6C 2E9, Canada
210 Wilson Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5M 3B1, Canada
2014
2014
45
65
Preschool to 6
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Montessori, Waldorf
Traditional
10 to 16
5 to 12
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
Learning, Developmental
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$10,000 to $16,500
$10,250 to $19,750
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
5
6
0%
0%
95%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 3
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
information not available
Julia Simon founded Alive Montessori in 2001, and she remains very much the head and hands of the school today. She established the school as a means of delivering the Montessori principles, prime among them being the provision of a family-like atmosphere in which to learn. Families who enroll here are drawn to the small size of the school, allowing students to gain a heightened sense of their place within the life of the school. Instruction is personal, with pacing cues taken from the individual students, and a close attention to the talents, perspectives, and interests that they bring with them to the school each day. Students are encouraged to have a voice, and to use it in their daily lives. Numeracy and literacy are important, though passion is, too, something that Simon has rightly built the Alive program around.
View full reportThis is a small school, and it has all the benefits that we associate with small schools, including a high level of engagement within the entire school community across the grades and age levels. Collaborative, hands-on learning is a draw, as is the individualised approach. The academic program is enriched, challenging, yet that’s accompanied by lots of supports, including those for students who arrive with a range of learning differences. The co-curricular offerings are broader than you might expect of a school of this size, including lots of opportunities to develop physical wellness, from yoga to marital arts. The school prides itself on being innovative, forward thinking, though that rightly is conducted with a clear view of what families need from the school, including open lines of communication and before and after care, which is included in the cost of tuition. Fluency with the core curriculum is a primary goal, as it should be, though confidence is too, and students are given ample opportunities to seek new interests, build confidence in social settings, and find their voices. In every way, there's a lot here to love.
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"They make learning fun and cater to what interests him while focusing on the core fundamentals..."
Emily Flores - Parent (Mar 02, 2020)
Before we came to Alive Montessori & Private School, my son disliked school. He dreaded every mornin...
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"Located one short block north of Eglinton at Bathurst. PRE-SCHOOL TO GRADE 6. Children get off to a very fast start to their education in a safe, family-like environment. Early reading at ages 3, 4 and 5 develops into fluency at a young age with our extremely effective reading program. Very strong emphasis on the Basics of Reading, Writing and Math to give a solid grounding for all other learning. Watch your child's confidence grow as he or she demonstrates competence and ability. FASTER LEARNING – MADE FUN!"
"Glen Briar Academy offers personalized programs that are complemented by a deep commitment to socio-emotional and character development. Our teaching practice is tailor-made to fit modern children; their varied learning styles, interests and abilities. With individualized learning at the core of its pedagogy, Glen Briar Academy is a place for the whole child to thrive and grow."
"> Every child is a unique individual deserving of the best education possible.
> Every child has an innate desire to learn that must be cultivated, not blunted.
> Every child has his or her natural interests and strengths.
> Learning occurs at varying rates and every child learns at his or her own optimum pace.
> The goal of education is to give every child the tools to become self-reliant and successful in life.
> Done properly, learning is fun."
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"For our parents Alive is more than education. Our school means family and means trust and a whole new understanding what it means to feel safe and loved.
They choose our school because it is small and welcoming place where every child is appreciated and feels a sense of belonging. In the end of the day, children do not want to go home and arrive each morning with a smile. The hands-one learning and qualified staff are major factors that contribute to our student's success."
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"Our school has Speciality Classes almost on a daily basis during the normal school hours.
From piano classes to gym classes, to drama and dance classes, we have a wide range of activities."
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"We treat each child as an individual and families often get surprised that we know each other on a personal level. We truly care about every single child that steps through the door. We are a very small school community of 50 students in total, going from Preschool to Elementary, which allows us to give our students the attention and guidance to help them reach their full potential."
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At Alive Montessori & Private School our mission is based on the following premises:
• The word “educate” comes from Latin roots meaning “to lead out”. As such, we believe that it is our duty as educators to bring out the innate skills and talents of the children in our charge.
• Every child is a unique individual deserving of the best education possible.
• Every child has an innate desire to learn that must be cultivated, not blunted.
• Every child has his or her natural interests and strengths.
• Learning occurs at varying rates and every child learns at his or her own optimum pace.
• The Basics of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic are vitally important as these still form the foundation for all future learning.
• The goal of education is to give every child the tools he or she will need to become self-reliant and successful in life.
• Education does not have to be a dreary and dull activity. Done properly, learning is fun.
Our goal at Alive Montessori & Private School is to provide the best possible start to our children through proper education, thereby instilling a life-long love of learning in every child. We aim to create a safe, caring and fun environment where every child will learn and will become more and more confident as he or she gains in abilities.
Julia Simon
(Principal)
Welcome,
and congratulations on taking an important first step towards improving your child's journey of learning.
At Glen Briar Academy we understand that picking a school can be difficult, which is why we encourage you to come and visit us, and see why GBA is exactly what you have been looking for. Whether you live near or far, Glen Briar Academy is the ideal place for your child to learn, develop and grow.
Book a school tour for a chance to visit our classrooms, meet our teachers, and see what a difference Glen Briar Academy could make in your child's academic, creative, social and emotional development.
We can't wait to meet you.
Sincerely,
Konstantina Peristeris & Brenda Kastner
Director & Director of Studies
Glen Briar Academy
Traditional
Information not available
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Waldorf schools are available from preschool to Grade 12, though they are most popular at the younger ages. Waldorf schools are unmistakably "progressive". Rudolf Steiner, their intellectual forefather, believed the educator's first task should be to help students develop an aesthetic appreciation for life and learning. Sometimes incorrectly conflated with Montessori schools, Waldorf schools focus on developing the "whole child" - emphasizing collaborative, hands-on learning, along with the arts and music, which are integrated into other areas of study.
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The Montessori method provides hands-on learning in a stimulating school environment that enables children to learn more quickly and thoroughly. With far more interesting material than a traditional classroom, children are allowed much more opportunity to explore and develop their own interests and abilities. Learning occurs at their own pace in small classrooms and is geared towards developing competence – and thus, confidence. The mixed age groupings encourage children to cooperate with and help each other, while enabling the older children to learn responsibility and leadership.
Enriched academics become the medium for students to learn to problem-solve, think critically, research, process large amounts of information, and work both individually and in teams. Our curriculum is designed to challenge minds and promote innovative thinking. This ensures that our students not only posses the knowledge they need, but also the skills that will allow them to effectively and confidently share, modify and implement it both in and out of the classroom.
Equal Balance
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
The Montessori program uses lots of hands-on material such as counting beads, wooden rods, geometric shapes, and other objects children can handle to make mathematical concepts real and develop the child's understanding. After the concepts are fully understood, drilling and practice are done on the basics to achieve competence.
Our Mathematics curriculum provides students with balanced exposure to formal process, open and guided inquiry as well as meaningful hands on practice. Lessons and activities are designed to challenge the mind and apply concepts, thereby creating a continuum of learning that is solid, cohesive and cumulative. At the Intermediate grades, strong focused is placed on seeing math as a language that is a relevant part of every student's life. Geared by a combination of notational work and practical application, students have ample opportunity to explore the purpose of math in the world around them. Group work promotes problem solving and team work skills.
A variety of texts and supplementary materials are used. Additionally, all our learning spaces are equipped with purposeful manipulatives, varied resources and engaging technology to support our students in their learning.
We expect our students to become very competent in performing math in their heads or on paper before we introduce calculators. This has the added benefits of developing mental discipline and confidence in their own abilities to solve problems.
The use of calculators is at the discretion of the teacher.
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Maria Montessori believed that the ideal age to teach children to read is between 4 and 6. Using her materials (sandpaper letters, moveable alphabet, metal templates), we consistently have children reading at age 4 (some as young as 3)
Literacy is key to learning, and the primary years at Glen Briar Academy are all about giving the students the tools to access and understand text, whether it be oral, written or media. A daily literacy block with focus on phonemics, comprehension and writing, gives students the tools they need to read, write, infer and retell through a variety of traditional and innovative media.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
The goal is that child will eventually be able to read as easily as to listen to a conversation.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Maria Montessori wrote, "Contrary to the usually accepted idea, writing precedes reading." This is because the child must re-create something to be able to understand it. Thus she developed a very strong program for writing, utilizing sandpaper letters, metal templates, and drills to complement her reading program. We develop the child's ability first, to print, and then to be able to do cursive writing.
Students are encouraged to develop and reflect on their thinking through writing. A focus on vocabulary and grammar allows students to confidently tackle these tasks, while developing a deep love and understanding of literature, and nurturing a personal voice as an author.
Inquiry
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Inquiry-based science emphasizes teaching science as a way of thinking or practice, and therefore tries to get students “doing” science as much as possible -- and not just “learning” it. Students still learn foundational scientific ideas and content (and build on this knowledge progressively); however, relative to expository science instruction, inquiry-based programs have students spend more time developing and executing their own experiments (empirical and theoretical). Students are frequently challenged to develop critical and scientific-thinking skills by developing their own well-reasoned hypothesis and finding ways to test those hypotheses. Projects and experiments are emphasized over textbook learning. Skills are emphasized over breadth of knowledge.
Montessori again uses lots of hands-on materials, including flash-cards for specific branches. All of the sciences are touched upon in the early grades.
Our Science curriculum puts great emphasis on the benefits of discovery. Through group inquiry, students become key players in the structure and specific content of their scientific study. While tackling subjects of interest and acquiring pertinent skills, students feel engaged and motivated to further expand their knowledge.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Zoology
Equal Balance
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
With a faster start to sure and confident reading, our children naturally gravitate to stories and literature.
Our literature program focuses on the in depth analysis and manipulation of text and literary features. Our students are exposed to and are encouraged to study pieces of literature from a wide variety of cultures and time periods. The focus is not placed only on retelling, summarizing, reflecting and inferring the information from the text read, but also on exploring contemporary issues and the ways in which they affect and influence us and the people around us. Additionally, through literature, students are provided with the tools needed to develop an informed view and opinion, to identify biases and influences, and to evaluate the reliability of the information provided.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Thematic
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
The Thematic approach organizes the curriculum around certain themes or cultural universals. Students might spend time focused on food. Then they might focus on transportation or government, and so on.
The Montessori materials are very well laid out and contain lots of pictures and activities to increase knowledge and understanding.
Through our social studies program, students are exposed to the wider world around them, teaching them to appreciate, compare and relate to the varied cultures that stand past their immediate environments and time. Students are encouraged to reflect on, manipulate and apply their knowledge to create presentations and media works that elaborate on these topics.
Pragmatism
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.
In a multi-cultural society like Canada, it is important to have a broad view of the different cultures, including a world view of history and geography. We also engage the students by examining and participating in different cultural events and holidays to explore music, folklore and art.
At the Intermediate level, Social Studies includes the exploration of Geography and History. These subjects are taught in a way that promotes student reflection and relevant application of concepts and theories, allowing students to become productive citizens and meaningful participants in the local and global community.
Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
Although not offered as a subject of study, Hungarian is my native language and we have had Hungarian-speaking children in our school.
Our Foreign Language Program focuses on fostering and developing a love of the both the particular language and culture, as well as an understanding of the way it can fit into our lives as Canadian citizens. Our curriculum focuses on language acquisition, communication, proficiency, and our classes our taught by certified and experienced teachers who provide scaffolded instruction at all stages of the language acquisition process. Our program provides individualized support across the curriculum, allowing student interest and compentency to flourish while developing critical communication skills. This individualized support includes teachers identifying effective learning/teaching approaches for each child, targeting individualized intelligences, and customizing tasks accordingly.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Creative
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
Our children are doing creative activities every day, whether it is painting, drawing, sculpture, drama, dance, music, singing, story-telling, crafts, etc. We try to expose them to as many disciplines as possible and give them an understanding of basic techniques.
Recognizing that many students better learn, explore and represent their thoughts and ideas through artistic expression, our cross curricular approach allows this discipline to be incorporated into all subject areas, thereby developing skills of interpretation and presentation within a variety of contexts.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
We believe strongly that computers should not replace the training and disciplining of the mind required to fully master the basics of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. It is much more important for young children to develop the spatial discernment and fine motor skills required for writing than the ability to punch letters on a keyboard. While this concept may seem quaint or “old-fashioned”, it results in children who can easily and rapidly translate these skills over into using a computer when the time comes.
Digital literacy is an important element of our program, as it is a necessary skill for all students in order to be prepared for the future. The use of computers and technology are seamlessly integrated into our lessons and activities, without being the focus of our lessons. They provide an aid, but not a replacement, in teaching the fundamental skills needed for students to be successful. Furthermore, students are taught the value of the use of technology as well as as understanding of the drawbacks it has on our daily lives.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
We are saddened when we see physical education programs
Our Physical Education program enables students to develop an appreciation of participating in a healthy and active lifestyle. Collaborative and individual tasks promote confidence and participation skills, not only in this subject area, but across the curriculum.
Play-based
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
With devoted teachers, proper Montessori methods, and one-on-one instruction, we consistently teach our students to read at age 4 (many at age 3). Gaining this ability so early does wonders for a child's confidence that spills over into other subjects and activities.
Our Kindergarten program offers a world of wonder and learning through hands on play, discovery and guided experimentation. The Kindergarten curriculum at Glen Briar Academy was created with the specific aim of providing children with a balanced environment that is both nurturing and challenging. Inquiry and play-based learning guides students through units that integrate and explore all curricular areas in a meaningful, relevant and dynamic way .
Student-paced
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
The Montessori method takes advantage of every child's innate desire to learn. Thus, allowing the child to learn at his or her own pace is not "slow" as some might envision. At times, it can be very fast.
Information not available
Rigorous
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
Our primary focus in the early grades centres around increasing the abilities of the children to read fluently, to write coherently and well, to be skilled at arithmetic and math, and to demonstrate competence in every activity they undertake. By so doing, they gain confidence that translates into their future learning and careers.
Enriched academics become the medium for students to learn to problem-solve, think critically, research, process large amounts of information, and work both individually and in teams. Our small class sizes are set to provide more individualized attention, allowing our teachers to meet the needs of a diverse range of learning styles, including those who might be struggling, as well as students who are exceptional learners and need a greater challenge in the classroom.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Emotional
The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."
We are dedicated, caring teachers creating an extremely safe, caring, family-like environment. Class sizes are very small with lots of individual programming and attention to each student. We make learning FUN!
At the core of our ethos is the student and his/her development as a whole person. We strive to create individuals who are, and will always be: capable learners, confident participants, successful contributors as well as aware and responsible citizens.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. |
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Modifications
Extra support
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
We are opposed to drugging our children with psychiatric drugs that have been proven to be dangerous yet are being diagnosed on nothing more than opinion (there are no medical tests of any kind for the conditions listed).
Information not available
Our belief is that children are being given labels at an alarming rate, and that most "learning" or "developmental" disabilities stem from causes that have nothing to do with anything being inherently wrong with the child. Previous poor teaching, poor diet, lack of exercise or discipline can cause non-optimum behaviour that can be corrected; we have done so many times.
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 6
10%
0%
$850
$0
95%
100%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 3
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 2 - 8
No
No
No
No
Students who are willing to challenge themselves and learn and whose parents want them to excel.
We are happy to welcome all new families to our own, and we look forward to changing, growing and developing to accommodate them and their changing needs.
ACADEMICS: None. We are usually able to turn around a child's failed education within a short time. (Our view is that almost all "Learning Disability" comes from improper teaching and can be corrected.) Reading comprehension and math testing will be done before enrolment to assess the correct starting point. BEHAVIOR: As with academics, our experience is that virtually all "ADHD" and behaviour-type problems are "learned" behaviours (often caused by a poor learning environment itself) and are not signs of deficiencies within the child. We have turned around many students with a little bit of discipline and by creating a stimulating, caring school that makes learning fun.
Glen Briar Academy is devoted to the academic and social development of our youth. Our school administration and staff work closely with parents/guardians to ensure that their child is immersed in an appropriate and stimulating learning environment.
Following the submission of an application package, our admissions department will contact you to set up a suitable time to schedule a visit of our school premises, a tour and an assessment. These will be completed over the span of a morning or an afternoon, allowing parents and students to enjoy and experience Glen Briar Academy’s learning environment.
Applications are free of cost, and filed at no commitment for enrollment.
Junior Kindergarten/Senior Kindergarten and Grade 1 applicants will meet with the head of our primary department, receive a tour of the school building, and go through a brief informal assessment, focusing primarily on basic literacy, numeracy and social skills.
Grade 2 to 8 applicants will meet with the Director of Studies, receive a tour of the school building, and go through a brief formal assessment, focusing primarily on literacy, numeracy and social skills.
Students will be assessed at their current grade level, with consideration for their applicable enrollment year. The purpose of the assessment is not to distinguish using capacity or ability levels, but to start creating a student portfolio that will allow Glen Briar Academy’s educational team to tailor the learning environment and program to suit the needs, goals and strengths of each student.
Applicants will be contacted within 5 business days with notification of enrollment. At this time, parents will be forwarded further application materials and requirements.