AN OUR KIDS REPORT:Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E. vs. Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate

one-to-one comparison:

View Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E.'s full report
VS.
View Calgary Academy & Calgary Collegiate's full report

  • SCHOOL LOCATION

    Distance From

    Map

    Address

    Address

    12 Bond Crescent, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4E 3K2, Canada

    1677 93 Street SW, Calgary, Alberta, T3H 0R3, Canada

  • SCHOOL OVERVIEW

    Basics

    Basics

    Founded

    1993

    1981

    Enrolment

    300

    700

    Grades

    1 to 8

    K to 12

    Gender

    Coed

    Coed

    Living arrangements

    Day

    Day

    Language of instruction

    English

    English

    Faith Based

    School focus

    Academic

    Academic

    Developmental Priorities

    Intellectual
    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
    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.
    Emotional
    The goal is to cultivate "emotionally intelligent and confident individuals, capable of leading both themselves and others."

    Academics

    Academics

    Curriculum

    Traditional

    Traditional

    Curriculum pace

    Accelerated
    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).
    Student-paced
    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.

    Academic culture

    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”.
    Supportive
    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Avg. Class Size

    Varies

    16 to 20

    Special needs support

    Learning, Behavioral

    Gifted learner support

    Dedicated gifted school

    Preschool/K curriculum

    Academic
    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.
    Play-based
    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.

    Tuition

    Tuition

    Day Tuition

    $18,500

    $15,625 to $20,300

    Boarding Tuition

    Financial aid (FA)

    No

    Yes

    Students on FA

    0%

    0%

    Eligible grades for FA

    None

    K to 12

    Median FA package size

    $0

    $0

    Enrollment

    Enrollment

    Avg. enrollment per grade

    38

    54

    Percent in boarding

    0%

    0%

    Admissions

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    0%

    Day entry years

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    Yes: grades K - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

  • OUR PERSPECTIVE

    The Our Kids Review

    The Our Kids Review

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    information not available

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    information not available

    Our Take

    Our Take

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The PACE program was developed with gifted students in mind, based in an understanding of what they share—overall ability—as well as what they don't, such as specific talents, interests, and curiosities. The term of art is differentiated programming, though it's a term that can easily lend itself to misunderstanding. It doesn't mean that different students proceed through the curricula at different rates or are each given separate tasks based on their individual abilities. Rather, within a differentiated program all students proceed at the same pace through the material, while instructors provide multiple entry points that address the needs of individual students within the class. The ideal student is one who has been identified as gifted, and who requires challenge in order to succeed in academic work.

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    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Every school is unique, supporting a unique set of learners, and Calgary Academy is an excellent example of the concept. The school addresses itself to students with learning difficulties and differences and who aren’t reaching their potential in a traditional learning environment. The Academy addresses learners who are struggling and need targeted academic support; the Collegiate addresses learners who are achieving at the top of their peer group, and who need a challenge and direction in order to reach their potentials. The program is designed in the awareness that students often arrive having had negative experiences elsewhere. As such, a core goal of the program is to build self-esteem and confidence in their skills and abilities. The values that inform the delivery of the curriculum are also, rightly, a draw for the families that enrol.

    View full report
  • INSIDER PERSPECTIVES

    Written Reviews

    Written Reviews

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    "he administration and teaching staff truly want all students to succeed to their highest potential."
    Melanie Maresch - Parent   (Mar 09, 2023)
    Both of our kids love the culture and environment at PACE. They have many close friendships that hav... View full review

    "It offers a challenging, yet well-balanced curriculum in every grade."
    Yuliya M - Parent   (Mar 13, 2023)
    Our daughter's experience at the Academy for Gifted Children - P.A.C.E. has been rewarding. She has ... View full review

    "The quality of teaching at PACE has always surpassed our expectations."
    Raminder Juneja - Parent   (Mar 22, 2023)
    Both of our children have had wonderful experiences at PACE. The collaborative, supportive learning ... View full review

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    information not available

  • SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

    Message from school leadership

    Message from school leadership

    My journey at P.A.C.E. began in 1999 and in 2019 I was delighted to assume the role of Director/Principal. The most rewarding part of my job is interacting with the students. They are fun loving, witty and demonstrate an intellectual curiosity that is any educator's dream. The energy level in the building is very high, the questioning by the students is incessant, and there are a lot of laughs. The skills for succeeding at P.A.C.E., whether in the role of teacher or student, are the same: a love of learning, high motivation, an excellent work ethic and a sense of humour. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by excellent teachers and a strong administrative staff: Liana, the Assistant to the Director; our Vice Principals, Caroline Corbit and Joanne Abela; and our Administrative Assistant, Irina. Every September we look forward to yet another passionate and exciting year for all.

    information not available

  • ACADEMICS

    • OVERALL CURRICULUM


      Primary Curriculum

      Primary Curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Traditional


      Secondary Curriculum

      Secondary Curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      Information not available


      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      Our Take: primary curriculum type

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      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.

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      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.


      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      Our Take: secondary curriculum type

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Not applicable


      What the school says about their curriculum

      What the school says about their curriculum

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      P.A.C.E. is a magnet school for students who have been identified as intellectually gifted by means of a psycho-educational assessment. The curriculum is differentiated through various methodologies and strategies i.e. compacting, identifying learning styles, creative problem solving, acceleration, inquiry-based learning, addressing the critical thinking skills, sophisticated field studies, greater depth and breadth of instruction, etc. in order to meet the special needs and characteristics of gifted kids. Our courses reflect high powered learning experiences for our gifted learners, including pre-AP courses offered in grade 8. To address the needs of the whole child, wonderful Fine Arts, Athletic, and Co-Instructional Programs complement our strong academic program. There is something truly special about being surrounded by people passionate about everything they do.

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      Calgary Academy offers three programs: Academy, Collegiate, and Blended+. The Academy Program is specifically designed for children who have a gap between their potential and performance. While these students have average to above-average intelligence, they may have not benefited from typical classroom instruction and may be struggling academically. The class sizes are small with a population of sixteen students with two instructors in the class. The Collegiate Program is for students who are working independently at grade level in each core academic area. The program offers a learning community dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and the success of each student. In this program, students are in a small class environment led by one teacher. Our Blended+ program is the best of online and in-person learning and empowers students with the flexibility to learn at home or in school. The + references robust off-campus excursions and experiential learning opportunities.

    • COURSE PEDAGOGIES

      • Early Reading


        Approach

        Approach

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Phonics-intensive


        Our take: early reading approach type

        Our take: early reading approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        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.


        What the school says about their early reading program

        What the school says about their early reading program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Children entering in to grade 1 are reading at various levels; from one or two sentences with pictures, to chapter books. Therefore, often there are 2 or 3 reading groups each with different reading assignments. Typically, by January, all of the children have reached a comparable level in their reading fluency but not necessarily in their reading comprehension. By the end of grade one all of the children are reading the same novels.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

      • Writing


        Our take: writing approach type

        Our take: writing approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        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.


        What the school says about their writing program

        What the school says about their writing program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Our children love to write, and we begin to introduce analytical writing as well as creative writing in grade one; the sophistication of which increases as writing assignments are introduced into writing categories: poetry, short stories, essays, and dialogues/monologues.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

      • Social Studies


        Our take: social studies approach type

        Our take: social studies approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        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.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        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.


        What the school says about their social studies program

        What the school says about their social studies program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our broad-based issues and themes, students learn in a very holistic manner as opposed to learning content and facts in isolation. The exploration of the dynamic activities enhance the critical thinking skills and students learn how to apply, analyze and evaluate information. It is through these theme based assignments that our younger students learn to hone their research skills - both through written report and oral presentation.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

      • Humanities and Social Sciences


        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        Our take: humanities and social sciences approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.


        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        What the school says about their humanities and social sciences

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Through our life skills course, civics, history, law, philosophy and classical civilization students develop their critical thinking skills through discussion, debate and analytical essay writing. Students enjoy discussing BIG IDEAS while respecting the opinions of their peers in a safe and open learning environment. Application to real life experiences remains an important aspect of any social science or humanities course.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

      • Foreign Languages


        Our take: foreign language approach type

        Our take: foreign language approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.


        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        What the school says about their foreign language programs

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        The acquisition of French as a second language includes the concrete sequential mode of learning as well as interactive group work. Our French Language program addresses the four components: Listening Comprehension, Reading Comprehension, Written and Oral Expression. Students study French cultural and language heritage as well as the constructs of formal grammar.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        The primary focus of the Calgary Academy Spanish program is to provide students with communicative competence in the target language. Students are taught vocabulary and grammar thematically, using a multi-modal format. A plethora of interactive activities enables students to develop their linguistic and cultural literacies in Spanish in engaging ways. Various aspects of Hispanic culture are integrated throughout the curriculum and technology is used to enhance students’ acquisition of Spanish. Differentiated instruction and assessment create customized learning opportunities for students that afford them academic success.


        Language instruction offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Hebrew
        ESL
        Spanish
        Russian
        Latin
        Japanese
        Italian
        Greek
        German
        French
        Chinese-Mandarin
        Chinese-Cantonese


        Learning a foreign language is required until

        Treatment of evolution (value)

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Information not available

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Information not available

      • Computers and Technolgy


        Approach

        Approach

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Medium integration


        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        Our take: computers and technology approach type

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        A major effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy throughout the curriculum and in everything students do. Digital literacy is understood to be a fundamental skill in the 21st century: it therefore follows, the idea goes, that teachers should find ways to connect every lesson back to technology. Effort is made to ensure the use of technology is meaningful and advances students’ skills beyond what they would otherwise be from using computers outside the classroom.


        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        All students use personally owned devices to enhance learning experiences and opportunities in various disciplines throughout the regular school day. Robotics plays a very large role in our technology program and the instruction of coding begins in grade four.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        To have students gain confidence in their technology skills so they can navigate and interact in the digital world with confidence. Students experience technology as a creative tool which they are able to generate content with, program, and ultimately shape to reflect their personal vision.


        Courses offered in:

        Topics covered in science curriculum

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Web design
        Robotics
        Computer science

      • Physical Education


        What the school says about their physical education program

        What the school says about their computers and technology program

        ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

        The development of a healthy mind and body is critical to success.

        CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

        Students participate in individual and team activities designed to kick-start a lifelong interest in health and physical activity. In our engaging classes, students maximize their participation and confidence, while developing sportsmanship and leadership skills.

    • PRESCHOOL/K CURRICULUM


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      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.


      What the school says

      What the school says

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      Information not available

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      The earliest years in a child’s education are the most impactful. The program features three themes: exploration, connection, and motivation. Our full-day Kindergarten program will provide students with a strong foundation in literacy and numeracy and a head start on the skills, knowledge, and strategies they require to enjoy school and engage successfully in Grade 1.

    • ACADEMIC CULTURE


      Our Take

      Our Take

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      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”.

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.


      What the school says

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      Information not available


      Approach to student honours

      Approach to student honours

      ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

      "We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."

      CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

      Information not available

  • SPECIAL NEEDS SUPPORT

    FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIES

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:
    Modification:
    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:
    Resource Assistance:
    Withdrawal Assistance:
    Partial Integration:
    Full-Time Class:
    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.
    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.

    Additional support

    Additional support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    INFORMAL SUPPORT FOR MILD DIFFICULTIES

    Learning Strategy

    Extra Support

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD

    Extra support

    Accommodations

    Modifications

    Extra support


    Additional support

    Additional support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Social skills programs
    Occupational therapy
    Psychotherapy
    Speech-language therapy


    What the school says about their special needs support

    What the school says about their special needs support

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    Information not available

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Information not available


    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    What happens if child develops disorder while enrolled/Should families seek enrollment if child has disability

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    P.A.C.E. is able to provide limited accommodations for students with learning disabilities i.e. extra time on tests and exams.

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Our Academy program is designed to help students with diagnosed learning disabilities prior to coming to our school. We understand each student is unique and try to understand them where they're at. With the help of our teachers and learning supports, we ensure students feel like they're never alone.

  • EXTRACURRICULARS

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Competitive

    Comp.

    Recreational

    Rec.

    Badminton

    Baseball

    Basketball

    Canoeing/Kayaking

    Cricket

    Cross-country skiing

    Cycling

    Downhill skiing

    Equestrian

    Fencing

    Field Hockey

    Figure Skating

    Football

    Golf

    Gymnastics

    Ice Hockey

    Ice Skating

    Lacrosse

    Martial Arts

    Mountain biking

    Racquet Ball

    Rowing

    Rugby

    Running

    Sailing

    Skateboarding

    Snowboarding

    Soccer

    Softball

    Squash

    Swimming

    Tennis

    Track & Field

    Volleyball

    Weightlifting

    Wrestling

    Archery

    Curling

    Ultimate


    Clubs Offered

    Clubs offered

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    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

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    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


    What the school says

    What the school says

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    • Our students participate in many extracurricular competitions, most notably in drama and improv, robotics, reach for the top, model UN, chess and athletics.

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    • Drama performances occur twice per year.
    • Every year high school students are given the opportunity to make a global impact through our International Travel Studies Program, which has visited more than 20 countries!
    • The Calgary Academy Ski and Snowboard Club (CASSC) is the largest club of its kind in Alberta. Students in this program hit the slopes 10-15 times throughout the year.
  • Financial Aid

    Grades eligible

    Grades eligible

    K - 12

    Students on aid

    Students on aid

    0%

    0%

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    Avg. aid package (annual)

    $0

    $0

  • ADMISSIONS

    Admissions

    Admissions rate

    75%

    0%

    Day entry years

    SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

    Boarding entry years

    Day admissions deadline

    Rolling

    Rolling

    Boarding admissions deadline

    Not available

    Not available

    Interview required?

    Yes: grades 1 - 8

    Yes: grades K - 12

    SSAT required

    No

    No

    SSAT(out of province) required

    No

    No

    Entrance exams required

    No

    No

    Entrance essay required

    No

    No

    Application fee required

    No

    No

    Type of student school is looking for

    Type of student school is looking for

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    The first critierion for P.A.C.E. is that the student is identified as intellectual gifted. We are looking for bright individuals who are passionate about learning and are productive citizens within the school.

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    Calgary Academy is a school for children that may benefit from a different kind of learning environment. The criteria for our students is average to above-average intelligence and no primary social/emotional issues or history of. We have a school population of over 600 students and more than 160 staff. We offer two types of programs, the Academy Program , the Collegiate Program, and Blended+. The Academy Program started in 1981 and was specifically designed for children who have a gap between their potential and performance. While these students have average to above-average intelligence, they may have not benefited from typical classroom instruction and may be struggling academically. Typically, these students are often diagnosed with learning differences or disabilities and require additional support in their academic environment. The class sizes are small with classes of sixteen students with two instructors in a class. Students do not need to be struggling in every academic area to benefit from our Academy Program. With more than one teacher in the room, students can be challenged in their areas of strength while receiving help with identified areas of need. Our Academy Program starts at Grade 2 and continues through to Grade 12. Our Collegiate Program started in 1996 and is for students who are working independently at grade level in all core academic areas. The program offers a learning community dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and the success of each student. In this program, students are in a small class of eighteen students led by one teacher. They also benefit from the teaching and practice of specific learning strategies and critical thinking skills. A positive, safe environment fostering personal growth, academic achievement, character development and independence is provided. Our Collegiate Program starts in Kindergarten and continues through Grade 12. Both programs we offer have the same goals. These goals are in place because the vast majority of our student population intend to pursue post-secondary education and we recognize that students may take different routes to achieve them. In a world that was forced to go digital in 2020, Blended+ is the best of online and in-person learning and empowers students with the flexibility to learn at home or in school. The + references robust off-campus excursions and experiential learning opportunities.

    What the school says

    What the school says

    ACADEMY FOR GIFTED CHILDREN - P.A.C.E.

    All students are required to have a psycho-educational assessment (WISC V).  If the student scores in the 95th percentile or higher in verbal reasoning and visual perception, on paper, that child would qualify for P.A.C.E.  The next step would be to have a meeting with the family and for the student to visit for the day. Feedback regarding the child's visit is provided. 

    CALGARY ACADEMY & CALGARY COLLEGIATE

    1. Visit us. We hold tours every few weeks and would love to meet you. Schedule your parent tour here. Our tours include an overview of our programs and the chance to see our work in action. You’ll meet some our students, a variety of staff, and get to peek in some active classrooms.

    2. Complete your application online. Click here to apply online. Academy program candidates must submit the results of a psycho-educational assessment that is not more than 18 months old. A non-refundable admissions deposit must also be made to secure your child’s name on the placement list. The deposit does not guarantee placement at the school.

    3. Let us review your child’s history. Following completion of the online application and receipt of the admissions deposit, the Admissions Department will review your child’s educational history and other relevant documents to determine eligibility to the Academy or Collegiate program. If we believe our school is the best option for your child’s success, a student-needs assessment is conducted. This informal interview occurs between your child and an admissions team member, to get to gain a deeper understanding of their learning needs. At the end of the interview, your child will be given a tour of our facilities.

    4. We’ll be in touch. The Admissions Department will take all of your child’s learning needs and history into consideration to decide on an appropriate program placement. You will receive a notification from us upon completion of our review.

  • NOTABLE ALUMNI

    Alumni

    information not available
    information not available

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