#200 - 1490 W Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 4E8, Canada
2583 Carling Avenue # 103, Nepean, Ontario, K2B 7H7, Canada
7,662.1 km
5,528.0 km
2022
2020
90
100
8 to 12
8 to 12
Coed
Coed
Day
eSchool
English
English
Science and technology
Academic
Progressive
Reggio Emilia, Montessori
15 to 20
1
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
$1 to $27,000
Yes
No
50%
0%
8 to 12
None
$8,000
$0
18
20
0%
0%
30%
0%
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
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Rolling
Not available
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
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Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST) is a tech-heavy high school where all teachers are subject-matter experts. Learning is project-based and follows the B.C. curriculum at an accelerated rate, in which both the sciences and humanities are taught at a challenging pace. Computer science is taught starting in Grade 8. Fun is deeply woven into the programming, creating an environment where students are excited to learn. And learning new things is not the only metric for success—creating a learning environment where students are excited to learn is key. The school respects students’ capabilities and time, and it clearly communicates goals to each student and for each project. VISST is currently admitting students at all grades (Grades 8-12), with a flexible tuition model that accounts for each family’s financial situation and resources.
View full reportR.I.S.E. Academy offers a highly personalized, one-to-one virtual program for Grades 8–12 built around real-world impact and entrepreneurship. Through its Social Change Maker Program, students earn high school credits while leading hands-on projects in their communities, supported by mentors and flexible, inquiry-based learning. Rooted in equity and guided by the mantra Every Student’s Brilliance Matters, R.I.S.E. serves youth who need more freedom, relevance, and connection than traditional schools provide. Its culturally responsive, skills-focused approach helps students build confidence, purpose, and the capacity to create meaningful change.
View full reportinformation not available
"The teaching at Rise Academy was exceptional, and I was consistently impressed by the quality of instruction."
Alec Izere - Alumnus (Jan 29, 2025)
My experience at Rise Academy was truly transformative and far exceeded my initial expectations. Whe... View full review
"It is obvious that the teachers care deeply for their students and are willing to help their students succeed in achieving their goals."
Nathalie Keppie - Parent (Feb 25, 2025)
The quality of education that my children have received from RISE Academy has been the reason why we... View full review
"The personalized, inquiry-based approach allowed me to explore my passions while developing critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills."
Yenna Dushime - Alumnus (Mar 04, 2025)
R.I.S.E. Academy was more than just a school—it was a journey of self-discovery and growth. The pe... View full review
"Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST) is Vancouver's first & only dedicated STEM high school, offering the full BC curriculum with accelerated/enriched STEM taught via a mix of traditional methods and project based learning. The school is run democratically so that students are involved in planning and decision-making. You will find all sorts of students at our school, united by a shared curiosity and desire for challenge."
"At R.I.S.E. Academy, we believe education should meet students where they are. We provide flexible, personalized programming for Grades 8–12 that connects learning to real-world impact, leadership, entrepreneurship, and community change. Through one-to-one virtual, project-based learning, students earn high school credits while building confidence, practical skills, and meaningful connections that empower them to become leaders and changemakers in their communities."
"VISST is a reimagining of high school and differs from other schools in several ways. We are a STEM school with enriched and accelerated STEM offerings, delivered by experts in our respective fields. Our goal is that no VISST student hits their ceiling or finds themselves bored at school. VISST also deeply values student buy-in and ownership. We include students in important decisions such as which teachers to hire."
"R.I.S.E. Academy offers a distinct approach that empowers students to reach their full potential. In traditional high school settings, students who face academic challenges may not always receive the individualized patience and understanding they require. R.I.S.E. provides the opportunity to master the same material through personalized, smaller classes or one-on-one instruction tailored to each student’s needs. We are dedicated to redefining traditional education by focusing on real-world skill-building, fostering confident, socially conscious leaders who are prepared to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond."
"Our students spend more hours per week on STEM subjects, which necessarily means fewer hours in other areas. Our STEM classes run year-round rather than half the year on a semester system."
"To better serve families, R.I.S.E. Academy has elevated the standard for personalized, hands-on learning. We work to dismantle the barriers often found in traditional schooling by offering students tailored opportunities to master material in ways that align with their individual learning styles. While conventional classrooms often feature 20–25 students at fixed times, R.I.S.E. provides instruction in small groups or one-on-one settings, either virtually or in person at flexible hours. This provides students with the environment they need to grow. We have invested heavily in community partnerships, mentorship, and real-world learning; our operational model requires careful resource management to maintain affordability for families while ensuring every student receives the attention and opportunities they need to excel."
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"After 17 years in Ottawa’s public school system, founder Rebecca Chambers recognized that a fundamental shift was necessary to make education more approachable, accepting, and accessible. In 2020, Rebecca transitioned from her teaching role to conduct extensive research into personalized, innovative learning models, leading to the creation of R.I.S.E. Academy. Our mission is to support marginalized, racialized, and low-income youth across Ontario, providing the opportunities they deserve that are often unavailable in traditional settings. While early challenges included operating on a deficit, these hurdles allowed us to build vital connections with local businesses and social enterprises, creating a robust support network for both facilitators and students. These defining moments reflect Rebecca’s vision of transforming education into a platform for equity, creativity, and lifelong impact."
"Curious, motivated."
"R.I.S.E. Academy is an ideal choice for students who find that the current educational system in Ontario does not meet their specific needs. Our academy was designed with non-traditional learners in mind, providing a safe environment to take risks, challenge themselves, and access meaningful opportunities for growth. We support all students who require our unique approach, regardless of their background or circumstances. Our courses and projects are tailored to the individual, ensuring every student’s brilliance is recognized and nurtured. We serve those who may struggle in conventional settings by offering a supportive space to rediscover their potential. Additionally, we cater to gifted students and student-athletes who seek more rigorous or flexible opportunities than traditional schools can provide. We believe that every student deserves the dedicated time, effort, and patience necessary for their success."
"If a student is not meeting expectations for their grade level in Grade 7, they are likely not prepared to start high school at VISST. If a student is not interested in working hard at school, they are likely not a good fit for VISST."
"R.I.S.E. Academy is designed specifically for students who are not thriving within the conventional school system and require a more personalized, low-stress educational environment. If your student excels within the standard structure of Ontario’s public schools and does not require deconstructed teaching methods, small-group learning, or individualized instruction, R.I.S.E. Academy may not be the ideal fit for their needs."
"Families are drawn to VISST for different reasons: the STEM curriculum, the way students are treated and respected, the project-based learning, the like-minded peers. One of VISST's key competitive advantages is our teachers. In BC, it is not required that a teacher have a degree in a subject in order to teach it. In contrast, VISST teachers are highly trained experts who buy into VISST's philosophy and values. We give our teachers the time and resources to shine and do their life's best work."
"Families choose R.I.S.E. Academy over other alternative institutions because of our innovative and modernized approach to education. We provide an inclusive environment that prioritizes student growth and personalized development. As one R.I.S.E. parent shared: “For prospective families, I would say this. If you are looking for a school that nurtures creativity, independence, and purpose while still meeting academic standards, RISE Academy is truly one of a kind. It is a community that believes in your child and gives them the tools, space, and support to thrive."
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"To the public, R.I.S.E. Academy is recognized as an institution that has successfully challenged the barriers of a traditional education system. R.I.S.E. is known as a place where students are not simply processed through a standardized curriculum, but are seen and understood as individuals. While conventional schools are often perceived as rigid or one-size-fits-all, R.I.S.E. provides a secure environment where students can authentically be themselves without the fear of judgment or social pressure from their peers."
"VISST's culture is sometimes underrated. In a word, we are a STEM school -- this features in our school's name, even. But in sentence, we are a STEM school with an utterly different school culture. At VISST students are first class citizens. Students call teachers by their first names, share social spaces with teachers, interview teacher candidates during hiring, and participate in school governance. Students truly feel a part of VISST, and in doing so they build justified self-confidence."
"While our flexible hours and small class sizes are frequently recognized, a key aspect of R.I.S.E. Academy that is often overlooked is our community-driven and mentor-based programming. Students in these programs engage with mentors individually, forming connections that bridge the gap between their academic and personal lives, leading to a deeper understanding of both course material and essential life skills. By integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals into our curriculum, students not only earn credits but also develop leadership, empathy, and a profound understanding of how to contribute meaningfully to their communities. This approach equips students with critical competencies often missed in traditional settings, fostering resilience and confidence."
"Some families think of VISST as a school for "math genius" types. While we do provide an excellent environment for students who excel in STEM subjects, VISST was created for a broader audience. We measure success by how much a student grows in 5 years, not by where they start or end up. All students at VISST enjoy STEM, are curious about it, and are capable of succeeding, but math doesn't have to be your strongest suit for you to attend and thrive at VISST. We also welcome "artsy" types!"
"Families are often surprised by the depth of learning achieved through our non-traditional methods. While there is a common misconception that alternative education is less effective than conventional schooling, R.I.S.E. Academy transcends the standard "alternative" label. We provide a secure and inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can learn in ways that align with their individual strengths. At R.I.S.E., our focus remains steadfastly on the student, with a commitment to the personal and academic success of every individual we serve.
As one of our current students shared: “There’s not a single thing I’d change about the school. I’m really happy here and feel like I’m getting the most out of my time. One thing I wish I’d known before arriving is just how much I’d be able to grow and learn, not only academically but also personally. It’s a space where I feel comfortable, and I’m glad I chose R.I.S.E. Academy.”"
"New science lab facility."
"A significant recent development at R.I.S.E. Academy is the introduction of our Elite Athlete Program and Impact NOW! initiative. The Elite Athlete Program is designed to help student-athletes excel in both their sport and their studies, removing the need to sacrifice academic progress for athletic pursuits. We equip these students with the mindset and strategic planning necessary to grow as resilient learners and leaders.
Impact NOW! is a specialized program for students navigating adversity within their communities. It provides a platform to gain entrepreneurial experience, build professional networks, and engage in real-world business development. More than a path to school credits, Impact NOW! fosters a sense of community and belonging. Each session begins with a shared meal and features guest speakers, followed by small-group lessons designed to encourage collaborative dialogue rather than traditional lectures."
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"Looking ahead, we are scaling our mission so no student in Ontario is limited by standardized education. Over the next five years, we will expand our Impact NOW! programs across the province, positioning our Social Changemakers (SCM) initiative as a vital support to the traditional school system. To meet growing demand, we are strengthening our team of expert staff and mentors to ensure personalized 1-on-1 guidance. We envision hubs offering high-impact workshops in essential life skills like financial literacy and business, alongside a robust digital library of resources to broaden access. Central to this growth is building strong sponsor partnerships that directly support SCM. With 100% of SCM students subsidized, these partnerships ensure financial barriers never limit a student’s potential to lead."
Welcome to the Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST)! Before founding VISST, I was a computer science professor at UBC where I taught over 25 courses to thousands of students. At UBC I made two key observations. One, that university students are much more comfortable with well-defined short-term tasks than with ambiguity and long-term planning; this, I concluded, is likely a product of our current high school system. And two, I observed firsthand the insatiable demand for computer science at UBC and all universities around the world, which is well beyond our capacity to provide it. This is unfortunate, I felt, because kids are more than capable of learning computer science. Combining these observations with my teaching experience, I decided to create VISST along with a fantastic team. VISST is a non-profit high school in Vancouver that aims to address the struggles I observed in university students and the lack of computer science in high schools.
Our pedagogical approach is to combine project-based learning with rigorous fundamentals. The former builds teamwork skills, long-term planning, and comfort with ambiguity. The latter is an essential component to STEM excellence. An overarching theme of our educational philosophy is to have students interface with the real world as much as possible. Whether it is publishing an article, interpreting data from the news, or partnering with a community organization during a project, real-world experiences are motivating and educational. We would consider it a failure on our part if our students are left wondering, "Why am I learning this?"
We look forward to having you explore VISST. Welcome to the VISST community.
Welcome to R.I.S.E. Academy!
At R.I.S.E., we believe that every young person is brilliant and capable of achieving success—when given the right environment. Traditional education doesn’t work for everyone, especially those who learn differently, face systemic barriers, or need flexibility and purpose in their learning. That’s why we’ve created something different.
Our programs are personalized, one-to-one, and built around each student’s strengths, passions, and goals. Whether your child is neurodiverse, navigating challenges in traditional school, or simply needs a more meaningful, hands-on approach to learning, R.I.S.E. offers a path forward. We focus on building relationships, confidence, and real-world skills while students earn their Ontario high school credits in flexible, innovative ways.
We’re not just preparing youth for graduation—we’re preparing them for life. With a focus on social justice, entrepreneurship, creativity, and community engagement, R.I.S.E. empowers students to become leaders in their own lives and in the world around them.
We’d love to welcome your family to our growing community.
Warmly,
Rebecca Chambers
Founder & Principal, R.I.S.E. Academy
Reggio Emilia
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Montessori
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.
Reggio Emilia programs are offered by some schools at the preschool and elementary level. The approach aims to develop curiosity and problem-solving skills through the liberal use of projects (as opposed to activities or lessons): teachers design projects for children around their demonstrated interests. Projects can be geared to an individual student, a small group of students, or the class as a whole. They can last from a few days to the whole year. Art is strongly emphasized and is typically incorporated into every project. Teachers actively participate in projects alongside students, rather than sitting back and observing. The philosophy calls for a high degree of parent involvement as well, particularly when forming curricula and project plans (which happens throughout the academic year).
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Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Our curriculum philosophy involves a mix of rigorous fundamentals with project-based learning. Projects provide an incredible opportunity for students to pursue their interests, practice teamwork, grapple with ambiguity, and go deeper when their curiosity tugs. On the other hand, we also believe in the value of structured learning to build up fundamental knowledge and skills through practice, continually pushing the boundaries of our students’ capabilities. Our courses, STEM and otherwise, will be delivered through this combination of techniques. We have found that, often, progressive education models come at the expense of rigor. However, there is no need for this tradeoff: a curriculum can be both progressive — incorporating methods like project-based learning, inquiry-based learning, emphasis on self-reflection and mindfulness, etc. — and also highly rigorous. We are aware that an entirely project-based approach may leave gaps in students' knowledge; thus we combine projects with methodical and structured learning to achieve the best of both worlds.
R.I.S.E. Academy offers a personalized, hands-on curriculum rooted in inquiry, project-based learning, and real-world application. Our approach is flexible and relationship-driven, designed to meet students where they are and adapt to their unique needs, strengths, and goals. We offer one-to-one virtual instruction, community-based programming, and pop-up experiences that allow youth to earn high school credits while pursuing extracurricular passions. R.I.S.E. is especially committed to supporting neurodiverse students and those who’ve struggled in traditional school settings. We remove barriers by eliminating rigid schedules, large class sizes, and standardized assessments. Instead, we focus on student voice, choice, and strengths-based learning. Our programs are trauma-informed and culturally responsive, with regular check-ins, personalized feedback, and wraparound support. Whether through credit recovery, experiential learning, or mentorship, R.I.S.E. empowers youth to regain confidence, re-engage with education, and envision a future where they thrive.
Equal Balance
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
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At R.I.S.E. Academy, our math program is fully personalized and designed to meet each student’s individual learning needs. Youth work one-to-one with their dedicated math teacher to co-create a program that fits their goals, learning style, and pace. Whether students need to build foundational skills, catch up on missed credits, or challenge themselves with advanced concepts, our flexible approach ensures they’re supported every step of the way. There’s no need for an outside tutor—students have direct access to their teacher, who is focused entirely on helping them succeed. With ongoing support, real-time feedback, and meaningful instruction, students build confidence and deepen their understanding of math in a way that makes sense to them. By removing the pressures of traditional classrooms and emphasizing relationship-based teaching, our program empowers youth to thrive in math and beyond.
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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.
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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
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These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
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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
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These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
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These programs feature an equal blend of the audio-lingual and communicative styles of language instruction.
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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
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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.
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Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
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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.
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Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
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Student-paced
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.
VISST heavily incorporates project-based learning into the curriculum. During projects, students work at their own pace and can dive as deeply into a topic as their curiosity takes them. Outside of projects, VISST provides individualized instruction through small class sizes, expert teachers, and community mentors.
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Supportive
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “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.
Students attend VISST because they are looking to challenge themselves. That said, a core value at VISST is balance. VISST students are not expected to sacrifice a good night's sleep due to homework. We want to make the most of students' high school experience, using time effectively, but we recognize the boundaries. We want our students to have both a great education and a happy childhood.
At R.I.S.E. Academy, academic success is defined by progress, engagement, and personal growth—not rigid benchmarks. Our culture emphasizes curiosity, effort, and real-world learning over grades and deadlines. We foster a supportive environment where students co-create expectations with their teachers, ensuring goals are realistic, meaningful, and achievable. Learners are encouraged to take ownership of their education, reflect on their progress, and celebrate milestones. With flexible pacing and individualized support, we prioritize mastery and understanding. Our one-to-one approach allows students to feel seen, heard, and empowered, creating a culture where academic achievement is personalized and deeply connected to each student’s strengths, interests, and aspirations.
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Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
Balance is a key value at VISST. We view the purpose of school as beyond academics. The primary purpose of school is intellectual development, but school should also help students understand their passions and learn about career options; it should be a time of character development and personal growth; it should be a place where lifelong friendships are forged; and it should be fun! We keep all these purposes in mind when making decisions at VISST.
At R.I.S.E. Academy, we aim to develop confident, compassionate, and capable young people who understand their value and power to make change. We prioritize critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, helping students become self-aware learners and engaged citizens. Our programs foster leadership, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. By connecting education to real-world issues and personal passions, we encourage students to see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and changemakers. We support them in developing the life skills—communication, collaboration, adaptability, and initiative—needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Ultimately, we strive to shape individuals who are not only academically successful but also grounded, purpose-driven, and ready to lead with integrity.
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 | |
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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.
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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.
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Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.
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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.
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Dysgraphia
This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.
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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.
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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.
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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).
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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.
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Down syndrome
his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Suicidal thoughts
This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.
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Drug and alcohol abuse
This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Muscular dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.
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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.
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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.
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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."
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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).
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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.
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Multiple physical
Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
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Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Information not available
Information not available
Information not available
At R.I.S.E. Academy, we are deeply committed to supporting all learners, including those who develop learning difficulties. Our one-to-one, personalized approach allows us to quickly identify challenges and adapt programming in real time. We collaborate closely with families, specialists, and the student to create strategies that foster success. Our flexible, strength-based model is often ideal for those who haven’t thrived in traditional settings. With patience, understanding, and individualized support, we help students navigate their challenges while building confidence, skills, and a renewed love for learning. Every learner is welcome and capable of success at R.I.S.E.
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
8 - 12
50%
0%
$8,000
$0
30%
0%
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Rolling
Not available
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 8 - 12
No
No
No
We are looking for students who want to be challenged and who demonstrate the potential to meet those challenges. A strong applicant will also demonstrate that they understand what VISST is about and that they would really like to be a part of this unique school and community. As a STEM school, we are looking for students with an interest in STEM, but this does not have to be your only interest! On the contrary, we welcome students with a broad range of interests; a diverse student body will enrich the experience for everyone. You will find that VISST innovates, and employs amazing teachers, in all subject areas.
See https://www.visst.ca/admissions for admissions information.