285 Eglinton Ave. E., Toronto, Ontario, M4P 1L3, Canada
1000 Brookfield East, Ottawa, Ontario, K1V 6J1, Canada
Indirect Support:
285 Eglinton Ave. E., Toronto, Ontario, M4P 1L3, Canada
1000 Brookfield East, Ottawa, Ontario, K1V 6J1, Canada
2014
1993
45
160
9 to 12
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Homestay, Day
Day
English
English, French
Academic
Academic
Progressive
Traditional
2 to 10
14 to 18
Learning, Behavioral
Dedicated gifted school
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$14,500 to $17,500
$17,500
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
11
15
0%
0%
70%
90%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
information not available
“The parents that turn to Westboro are looking to grant their children something more than merely a passing acquaintance with French. Rather, they want their children to be functionally bilingual in the fullest sense of that term. … the academic and social environment at the school is purposefully crafted to be bilingual in the truest sense.”
“The academic program is challenging yet supportive, demanding without being onerous. The faculty are keen to innovate and adopt new best practices, though this isn’t a school that is quick to deny the value of the tried and true.”
“ … the location, the green space to the south grant a character to the property that is a welcome contrast to the denser, more bustling areas of the city to the north.”
“Head of School, Elyane Ruel, is forward looking, easy to talk to, and, in a world of lots of big, expansive ideas of what education can be, she’s also refreshingly level headed.”
Read The Our Kids Review of Académie Westboro Academy
In a general sense, Toronto STEM School is a specialty school in the way that, say, a ballet school is a specialty school—it brings together students who share a passion, and builds the curriculum around their engagement with that curriculum. And, like a ballet school, or a hockey school, it’s not for everyone. But, for the students that it’s for, the experience can be transformative. The school specializes in Advance Placement instrution, and also serves as an AP examination centre. At Toronto STEM School students work and learn alongside true peers, those who share an abiding interest in technology. The core curriculum is the provincial one, though delivered in a technology intensive learning environment.
View full reportWestboro was established in 1993 by a group of parents who wanted a quality bilingual elementary education for their children. It began with a single Grade 1 class comprised of just 7 students. Needless to say, the school has grown, though—as at the beginning—growth has been an expression of need within the community. Further, the sense of community within the school is rightly encouraged and prized. The focus remains centred on providing an authentic, effective bilingual program within a setting that addresses academic and social development. The ideal student is one able to thrive in a challenging, active educational environment. As such, at Westboro those who enroll will join a student body of true peers, one in which social currency is gained through achievement in all levels of student life. For many, that experience alone can be transformational.
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"The environment is very friendly and supportive. The classes are dynamic, with hands-on activities, creating a more inviting experience for the students."
IVANI MANCINI - Parent (May 28, 2019)
My son is attending TSS - Toronto STEM School since September, 2018. Overall the experience at TSS h...
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"The class sizes are very small (4-7) and the teachers are very flexible in their approach. You never feel afraid to ask questions..."
James Davies - Student (May 28, 2019)
This place is fantastic. I started going to TSS in the summer after grade 9 to learn grade 10 math. ...
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"Both my sons began with supplementary tutoring and enjoyed the experience so much they asked to take their full math credits with TSS."
Beth Herst - Parent (May 28, 2019)
Both my sons have struggled with the math teaching in the public system. They were frustrated and de...
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"The compassionate, respectful, and inspiring atmosphere at AWA encourages children to push their boundaries while simultaneously respecting their needs."
Julia Albert - Parent (May 03, 2021)
We have nothing but incredible things to say about Westboro Academy. The richness of the curriculum,...
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"...the teachers do an excellent job of creating systems and structures that allow every learner to contribute in meaningful ways, and to demonstrate their unique strengths."
Michelle Schira Hagerman - Parent (May 27, 2021)
This has been our daughter's first year at Académie Westboro Academy, which means that her experien...
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"The school leadership and administration has been outstanding."
Danika G - Parent (May 27, 2021)
My child has attended Westboro Academy since junior kindergarten. He has developed close friendship...
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"Toronto STEM School is a not-for-profit independent high school focused on STEM. We are dedicated to providing our selected students with a rigorous and innovative educational experience. We offer a wide range of Advanced Placement courses in various subjects. With a strong emphasis on technology, the school has integrated cutting-edge tools such as coding, robotics, augmented reality, 3D printing, and AI into its curriculum. Our small and individualized learning environment is supportive and collaborative."
"Start your child(ren) on the path to bilingualism from the start. Our kindergarten program immerses students in French, with our all day French program, designed to help them learn and become confident in their French speaking abilities. As they advance, our Grade 1 to 8 program has an equal split between French and English language instruction. Our intentionally small class sizes foster a tight-knit community and a personalized learning approach, ensuring every student feels seen and supported."
"- Focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
- Not-for-profit and student-centered.
- Advanced Placement option and potential to earn an AP Capstone Diploma for interested students.
- Diverse learning environment. Most students share a passion for STEM."
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"At TSS, we value creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving. With the emergence of new technologies in general and artificial intelligence in particular, preparing students for their post-secondary journey is quite essential. We believe that most "transactional" tasks will be eliminated in future jobs. Therefore, to be successful at university, college or one's career, it is crucial to focus on developing traits and acquiring skills that overcome day-to-day robotic tasks."
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"Students who get the most out of our program are those who thrive in an environment where academia is taken seriously and success and achievement is celebrated. Our student body consists of a balanced mix of mostly local and several international students whose top priority is advancing in their studies, becoming well-versed in STEM-related subjects, build a strong portfolio in order to apply to universities and colleges and improve in math, sciences and coding."
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"Families looking for a school with maximum flexibility might not appreciate our student-centred approach to achievement and success. We do take academia seriously!"
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"- Competitive tuition.
- Passionate teachers.
- Individualized learning.
- 6 report cards issued per each academic year."
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"Our admission rate to top universities and colleges is one of the main reasons families choose our school. Families manage to receive a quality service without bearing the cost of a "campus school" but seeing better results in terms of growth, achievement and admission. At our school, students' route to success is in-line with our organization's success. Therefore, families may count on our guidance services without reaching out to expensive schools or counseling services where the cost of enrollment or guidance towards receiving an admission to a top Canadian, US or UK universities is not affordable."
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"Please visit our team's page: https://www.torontostemschool.com/team
A small, dedicated and professional team of people who prioritize students' well-being and success. Every member of our team is essential to our success."
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"Small is better! The amount of attention and care your child receives won't be comparable to that of a large learning space with multiple elements of behaviour issues, student engagement and reaching a common goal! At our small community, we follow a shared focus: academia with a passion for STEM!
As an example, your child will be taken to 10 field trips per school year! Why? because they are effective, targeted, promote field learning and all in all, easy for us to plan and run!"
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"Recently, we have introduced a new school calendar. We're now a semestered school - but similar to universities - as opposed to other semestered secondary schools. Our Fall semester concludes before December holidays. Our Winter semester end in early May - just in-time for AP exams. Students have a short Summer course in the month of June!"
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"Universities and colleges face admission issues ranging from mark-inflations to AI-interfered supplementary application entries. Therefore, they'd like to see hands-on portfolio building, standard and measurable academic achievement metrics (such as AP's) and solid proof of a track record of success. We are seeing their need and we're responding to it!"
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At our school, “Putting Students First” means providing quality education, beyond the regular frameworks. While we have a great deal of respect for the established standards and expectations, we think innovatively to cater to our students and the evolving world around them. We elevate our curriculum in and out of the classroom, actively seek new resources, and ensure that our students are prepared for any post-secondary stream they choose. We aim to prove that school can truly be a place of positivity, genuine connection, learning, and fun.
Our mission at Westboro Academy is to provide a truly bilingual and exceptional education, in a community-focused and nurturing environment. What makes us special is our approach to educating and developing the whole child in a true partnership with their parents and guardians. At Westboro Academy, every teacher and staff member knows every student and every parent. When people enter our building, they instantly notice the warm and familial feel of our school. Everything we do is geared towards promoting and maintaining our founding core values of Excellence, Integrity and Respect. Our students love to come to school every day and it is evident in their smiling faces. What makes us unique is our focus on the purest form of bilingualism. Bilingualism is a skill that children in the National Capital Region should be allowed. Our approach towards this is to provide quality instruction half of every day in each of Canada’s official languages. Therefore, when students leave Westboro Academy, they are fully confident in both English and French. Our students have a reputation for having the highest level of bilingualism of any students in Ottawa when they graduate from our program.
In addition to these, we have small classes, with only one class per grade. With an average of 16 students per class, our students have more opportunities and are given more attention than students receive in a regular classroom. Our students love learning and are challenged academically. At Westboro Academy, it is “cool” to be smart.
Our teachers are incredibly dedicated and passionate and our positive school climate makes them want to stay. I am happy to say that our teaching staff has an average tenure of eleven years. This speaks volumes about the stability of our school program.
We simply have so much to show you. Therefore, I would like to encourage Ottawa families and families from the Outaouais region to come to see the school for yourselves and meet our staff and students. I am confident that you will instantly recognize the benefits of a Westboro Academy education for your children.
Traditional
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Progressive (sometimes called "in- quiry-based") curricula attempt to place children's interests and ideas at the heart of the learning experience. Instead of lessons being driven by predetermined pathways, progressive curricula are often "emergent", with learning activities shaped by students' questions about the world. Instead of starting with academic concepts and then tying it to everyday experience, progressive methods begin with everyday experience and work back to an academic lesson. Teachers provide materials, experiences, tools and resources to help students investigate a topic or issue. Students are encouraged to explore, reflect on their findings, and discuss answers or solutions.
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.
Not applicable
We focus on mathematics, science, and engineering studies by supporting those who seek admission into such post-secondary disciplines. We value small classes to facilitate close relationships and to best support the needs of our individual learners. We offer: - University Pathway Program - Hands-On Learning - IELTS Preparation Sessions (for international students) - Fast Track Courses - One Field Trip per month - Enthusiastic teachers certified by Ontario College of Teachers
Westboro Academy offers a rigorous academic program built on a truly bilingual model for learning. Achieving personal excellence with a strong work ethic, and reaching your best in a supportive environment are keys to success. Students are expected to be critical thinkers and problem solvers who can collaborate with others and work towards a common goal. We build a strong community that fosters a culture of learning and celebrates differences. By using the Ontario English curriculum, and the French first language curriculum from Québec, we ensure a truly bilingual learning environment. Junior and Senior Kindergarten are full-day programs taught in French only. The program from grades 1-8 places equal emphasis on French and English. Our students are privileged to learn from dedicated and trained specialist teachers in Music, Art, Science, and Health and Physical Education. Our class sizes are small, and there is only one class per grade. With an average of 15 students per class, our students have more opportunities and are given more attention. Our students love learning and are challenged academically.
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.
We aim to offer students a taste of what lies ahead. For many students graduating from high school, it isn't obvious, for example, how their math courses will relate to physics and chemistry courses encountered in their post-secondary studies. We value foresight in our teaching methods so that students become proactive learners who accurately predict what concepts and skills await them in future courses.
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We do not recommend calculators for grades 10 and below; however, all students are allowed to use scientific calculators for tests and exams.
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Phonics-intensive
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.
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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.
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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.
Our goal is to offer these students a taste of what lies ahead. For the student graduating high school, it isn't obvious how their math courses relate to physics and chemistry courses. We would like to paint a clear picture of the relationship between these courses to give students a head-start on their university careers. What isn't standard about our courses is the view ahead our instructors offer. Our tech workshops are a key component to this philosophy.
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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
Not applicable
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.
We teach literature primarily through a "Reader Response Theory" approach, where students are empowered to discover meanings from texts through their subjective experience as unique readers with differing identities and backgrounds. Through this method, we enact inquiry-based learning, where students are prompted with questions to help them delve into texts and develop their critical thinking skills. Students are encouraged to become reflective independent thinkers who confidently express their views on literature with clarity and persuasion. This approach encompasses the belief that there is not one correct interpretation of a text, but rather many possibilities. We see our students become active learners, engaged with a text and with their peers through discussion, rather than passively listening to the teacher. In addition to our reader response approach, we also teach elements of literature so that students have foundational knowledge to refer to in their interpretations.
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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
Expanding Communities
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
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Equal Balance
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
We use a student-centred learning approach in our humanities and social science classes, where students are encouraged to research topics of personal interest and choose project directions suited to their individual preferences. By facilitating projects and activities centred on students' freedom of choice, we see learners become genuinely invested in their own education journey. We incorporate inquiry-based practices to help students become critical thinkers and cultivate their motivation in delving further into class concepts.
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Equal Balance
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
We offer French, German, Latin and Spanish courses to reinforce the importance of global citizenship. We encourage students to expand their perspective by learning any one of these foreign languages. These courses are also available at AP level.
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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
Equal Balance
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.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
We offer music courses at TSS. The technology element is essential since our instructors use up-to-date methods of digital sound mixing techniques.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
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.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
Students analyze algorithms for effectiveness. They investigate ethical issues in computing and further explore environmental issues, emerging technologies, areas of research in computer science, and careers in the field.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Through the Physical Education program, Westboro Academy aims to foster and develop a life-long love of sport and healthy and active living. We have a strong inclusionary approach to athletics where all students participate equally, regardless of skill or experience. We do not have try-outs for teams. Students are encouraged to participate to their full capacity and to develop skills. Westboro Academy experiences great success in inter-school althletics and remains highly competitive within the league, within the context of a non-competitively focussed approach.
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.
Our students are exposed to French, right from the beginning. We offer a full day Junior and Senior Kindergarten program although no prior experience with French is necessary. Children develop the base they need for a strong foundation in the bilingual program that starts in grade 1. At Westboro Academy, we encourage the intellectual, emotional and creative capacities of the children while instilling strong values, social skills and a sense of self. We make it a priority to provide an environment for our youngest students that is warm and nurturing, stimulating and engaging, and one where they can grow to meet their full potential.
Standard-enriched
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.
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
To accommodate different schedules, we offer correspondence courses where students earn credits through online platforms that allow flexible pacing, suited to individual needs. Additionally, we provide evening and night classes for students occupied during the day, or for those who simply prefer to be in school after typical hours.
Rigorous
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.
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”.
We set high standards to prepare our students for success in their post-secondary education journeys while simultaneously nurturing the curiosity and liveliness of our students by encouraging a learning process that is not based on rote learning or dominated by direct instruction. The academic culture we promote is one of COMMUNITY and APPROACHABILITY, where we seek to eliminate the barriers between teachers and students that are often found in the public school system. We aim to do more than simply impart knowledge on students; we aim to build relationships founded on mutual trust and respect.
The rigorous academic program is built on a truly bilingual model for learning. Achieving personal excellence with a strong work ethic, and reaching your best in a supportive environment are keys to success. Indeed, we believe that it is within a supportive environment that academic rigour can thrive and grow. Academic growth and achievement are key priorities for our school, and our reputation for academic excellence is strongly embedded.
"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.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
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.
Our faculty is comprised of teachers who prioritize - intellectual development - emotional intelligence - social awareness - physical wellness - spiritual resourceful Through these differences, our students are exposed to various teaching philosophies and practices that ultimately bring them a balanced experience. We aim, both individually and collectively, to offer our students a wide-lensed perspective of these multiple modes of development. Extra-curricular activities are key in order to help students develop a better sense of belonging to school community. Arts, Math, Games, Drones and Language Clubs are available on a weekly basis for students.
Each student deserves to achieve their very best. Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong study skills in preparation for high school and life-long learning.
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
Accommodations
Modifications
Extra support
Accommodations
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
The accommodations and modifications we apply to the learning process for our special needs students is derived from communication, observation, and interaction. Our small class sizes allow us the time and energy to understand our students on a deeper level so that changes to instructions, projects, activities, and teaching strategies can be made to help maximize the receptivity of our learners to reach their full potential.
Information not available
We very much value the individuality of each student, and with that, comes the recognition that each individual learner is comprised of distinct needs. We aim to meet these needs through one-one-one interactions, positive feedback and conferences where each student is fully supported and accommodated during his/her learning process. Our small class sizes allow ample attention to be given to each learner so that tailored teaching strategies can be applied to provide the highest quality of student-centered education.
Westboro Academy is a enriching learning environment for children and students of various abilities and with a variety of learning styles. The program is rigorous and challenging, yet support and accommodations are regularly made available for those that need it.
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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
0%
0%
$0
$0
70%
90%
7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 9 - 12
Yes: grades JK - 8
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
At TSS we welcome students wishing to learn outside the standard school system. We aim to accommodate students seeking a higher quality of education than what their current school provides. Generally, students at our school have a passion for math and sciences. They love learning through projects: 3D-printing, Drone Building or Math Modelling. If you feel like you need a school that gives you a great opportunity in STEM and provides you a calm, engaging and welcoming environment, then we are what you're looking for!
Westboro Academy seeks to admit students who are eager to learn and who can handle a challenging bilingual academic environment. Students who embody the school pillars of excellence, integrity and respect are a strong fit for the school.
Full application is available at: https://www.torontostemschool.com/admission
Apply to Westboro Academy online.
Application Checklist:
We do not have entrance exams/tests, but assessment visits.
