Astolot Educational Centre

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Core Knowledge
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages: Equal Balance
    • Fine Arts: Equal Balance
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Advanced Placement courses:
    • Sex and health education: Ontario curriculum
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Supportive
  • Developmental priorities: Intellectual
  • Special needs support: Special needs school
  • Gifted learner support: Dedicated gifted school
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Traditional
    [Show definition of Curriculum]

    Central to your child's school experience is the underlying curriculum taught in the classroom. "Curriculum" refers to both what is taught and how it's taught. When considering the different curricula outlined in the next few pages, keep in mind that few schools fall neatly into one category or another. Most schools' curricula comprise a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. Having said that, most schools do have a general overall curriculum type. These are identified for each school on OurKids.net.

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    Curriculum approach at Astolot: Traditional

    Astolot has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).

    [Show: About Traditional?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Traditional - 43%
      Liberal arts - 18%
      Progressive - 27%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    What Astolot says: Ontario Curriculum requirements will be met by accommodating for visual, auditory and kinesthetic leaning. Students working on the same topic may approach the curriculum or completion on their product (essay/power-point/oral presentation) with their learning style in mind. Involvement of students and parents is essential to establishing curriculum delivery for students.

    Approach:

    Focus	Special needs
    Academic	Special needs , Gifted

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 68%
        Traditional math - 28%
        Discovery math - 4%
      

      What Astolot says: Grades 1-8 math is structured with the Jump Math books. Each student gets two workbooks per grade, and once the booklets are complete they can advance into upper-level booklets. The teacher provides direct instruction to the class, then works individually with the students at the level they are at. Each class has approximately 10 students.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: Jump Math Books are used for elementary grades. Nelson Secondary Mathematic books are used for high school math.

      Calculator policy: Calculators are allowed during certain math problems. Graphing calculators are used in high school grades.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at Astolot: Balanced Literacy

      Astolot has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive , Whole Language approach).

      [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

      Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Balanced literacy - 56%
        Phonics-intensive - 42%
        Whole language - 2%
      

      What Astolot says: Both Phonics and whole language instruction are focused on for Literacy. Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds. Whole Language reading programs eschew sublexical (under the word-level) training, focusing instead on getting students to infer and guess at words based on their understanding of the larger meaning of the sentence (“context-clues”). Students are given ample opportunity to read actual literature (age-appropriate) along with strategies for using semantic-based clues to pronounce unrecognized words.

      DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What Astolot says: Wilson Reading Program is used to assess reading level.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at Astolot: Equal balance

      Astolot has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Process approach approach).

      [Show: About 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.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 82%
        Systematic approach - 10%
        Process approach - 8%
      

      What Astolot says: There is an equal balance between systematic writing approach and process writing approach. The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction. The process approach to teaching beginner writing aims to get students writing “real things” as much as possible and as soon as possible. The goal is to create the right environmental conditions to encourage a love of writing and a motivation to write well. With children invested in the writing process -- through assignments children find meaningful -- students are then given feedback on how they can improve.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Inquiry approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      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.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 73%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 22%
      

      Teaching approach: We offer an equal balance between inquiry scientific approach and expository science approach. Expository science is the more traditional method of teaching science: students learn scientific facts, theories, and the relationships between them through direct instruction by the teacher. These programs still incorporate hands-on experimentation and “live science”; however, relative to inquiry-based programs, expository science tilts towards content mastery and knowledge acquisition. Direct instruction ensures this acquisition process is efficient. Textbooks are emphasized (starting in earlier grades than inquiry-based programs), as are knowledge tests: students are asked to demonstrate they have thoroughly learned the content of the course, and can apply that knowledge to novel and challenging problems or questions. 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.

      Treatment of evolution:

      Subject	offered
      Evolution as consensus theory
      Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
      Evolution is not taught

      Topics covered in curriculum:

      Subject	offered
      Biology
      Chemistry
      Ecology
      Geology
      Meteorology
      Physics
      Physiology
      Zoology

    • Literature Equal Balance
      Literature approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional , Social Justice approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 78%
        Traditional - 19%
        Social justice - 3%
      

      What Astolot says: There is an equal balance of traditional literature and social justice inspired literature. 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. 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. In social justice- inspired programs, literature is not viewed as something to be merely decoded and “appreciated”: rather, it is viewed as a catalyst to social action. Choice of texts tends to favour contemporary works.

    • Social Studies Core Knowledge
      Social Studies approach at Astolot: Core Knowledge

      Astolot has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Core Knowledge?]

      Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Core knowledge - 42%
        Expanding communities - 27%
        Thematic - 31%
      

      What Astolot says: Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Pragmatism approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 85%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 9%
      

      What Astolot says: Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience.

    • Foreign Languages Equal Balance
      Foreign Languages approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual , Communicative approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

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

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 64%
        Audio-lingual - 2%
        Communicative - 34%
      

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

    • Fine Arts Equal Balance
      Fine Arts approach at Astolot: Equal Balance

      Astolot has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive , Creative approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 62%
        Receptive - 2%
        Creative - 36%
      

      Program offers:

      Subject	offered
      Acting
      Dance
      Drama/Theatre
      Graphic Design
      Music
      Visual Arts

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What Astolot says: We believe in expressive art. Creativity is inherently subjective. Our goal is to create an open and non-judgemental environment for students to experiment, innovate, and find the artist within.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Astolot: Medium integration

      Astolot has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration , Heavy integration approach).

      [Show: About Medium integration?]

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

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Medium integration - 48%
        Light integration - 18%
        Heavy integration - 34%
      

      What Astolot says: For high school classes, students are required to have a computer to type assignments. However, hand writing is an option for some students and for certain assignments. Students are allowed their assistive technology whenever it applies.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Astolot says: Physical education takes place in the neighbourhood park and at outdoor education centres (MacSkimming Outdoor Centre). Elementary students get an hour an a half outside each day. High School students get an hour break with the option to go outside. During spring and fall, all students are outside most days. Physical Education classes follow curriculum, and go beyond the curriculum to focus on team building and cooperation.

    • Advanced Placement courses
      This information is not currently available.
    • Sex and health education Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Astolot: Ontario curriculum

      Astolot has an Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).

      [Show: About Ontario curriculum?]

      The structure, pacing, focus, and tone of the sex education curriculum reflects that of the provincial one, taught in public schools.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

        Follows provincial curriculum - 55%
        Does not follow prrovincial curriculum - 45%
      

      Approach to sex and health education: Fairly value-based

      Astolot has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).

      [Show: About Fairly value-based?]

      Sex is sometimes taught from a particular moral or ethical standpoint. Sometimes particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) are invoked when teaching sex and related issues .

      Astolot has a approach Progressive (as opposed to Traditional approach).

      [Show: About Progressive?]

      This approach might involve placing more emphasis on things like planned parenthood, different types of families, sexual and gender identities, diversity, and social justice.

      What Astolot says: Sex is sometimes taught from a particular moral or ethical standpoint. Sometimes particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) are invoked when teaching sex and related issues. We blend the perspectives of traditional and progressive points of view. This approach might involve placing more emphasis on things like planned parenthood, different types of families, sexual and gender identities, diversity, and social justice. We also focus on the importance of healthy relationships and marriage.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Advanced Placement courses

    • Sex and health education
  • Curriculum Pace Standard-enriched
    [Show definition of Curriculum Pace]

    This refers to the rate at which students move through the curriculum (e.g., topics, textbook material, skills, etc.). Curriculum pace is often defined in comparison to provincial standards.

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    Curriculum Pace approach at Astolot: Standard-enriched

    Astolot has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).

    [Show: About Standard-enriched?]

    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.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Standard-enriched - 58%
      Accelerated - 17%
      Student-paced - 25%
    

    What Astolot says: Enrichment is possible as multi-aged classrooms allows for the flexibility of students to attend the classroom best suit for their learning requirement.

    Flexible pacing style

    Flexible pacing style	offered
    Subject-streaming (tracking)
    Multi-age classrooms as standard
    Ability-grouping (in-class) as common
    Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace)
    Regular guided independent study opportunities
    Differentiated assessment

    What Astolot says about flexible pacing: Gifted students have the opportunity to be placed in a higher grade level for subjects they excel in.

  • Academic Culture Supportive
    [Show definition of Academic Culture]

    Through the collective mindset of teachers, administrators, students, and parents, each school develops and maintains its own academic culture. This generally relates to the norms and expectations created around academic performance. Many parents look to private schools because they want a specific type of culture. Some want a rigorous environment that will elevate their child to new heights. Others want a nurturing environment that will help their child develop a passion for learning.

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    Academic Culture approach at Astolot: Supportive

    Astolot has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).

    [Show: About Supportive?]

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

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Supportive - 49%
      Rigorous - 51%
    

    What Astolot says: Astolot has a “supportive” academic culture focusing on developing student learning strategies and self-advocacy. Academic performance is a welcomed benefit of our focus. Astolot students proceed to post secondary with the necessary skills to be successful. We have a supportive academic culture to turn students from frustrated to engaged learners. Astolot is focused on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

  • Developmental priorities Intellectual
    [Show definition of Developmental priorities]

    Schools have specific goals regarding how they want their educate and develop their students. This is part of a school's overall philosophy or vision, which is contained in its mission statement. While they tend have several developmental aims, schools tend to priortize certain aims, such as intellectual, social, spiritual, emotional, or physical development.

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    Primary Developmental Priority: Intellectual

    The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Balanced

    "Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation."

    What Astolot says: At Astolot, we believe that the basic needs (security, trust, health) need to be addressed before academic success can be obtained. Our goal is to increase student's intellectual level, through addressing their emotional and social needs. We want our students to be academically strong, creative, critical thinkers with the learning skills required for success beyond high school. We also want our students to be emotionally intelligent and confident, capable of learning both about themselves and others.

  • Special needs support Special needs school
    [Show definition of Special needs support]

    Schools offer a wide range of approaches and services to support students with special needs. This may include individualized learning, one-on-one support, small classes, resource rooms, and learning aids. These supports may be provided in a number of different environments such as a dedicated special needs school or class, an integrated class, a withdrawal class, or a regular class with resource support or in-class adaptations.

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    Astolot is a Special needs school

    Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.

    What Astolot says about their special need support: Astolot has the ability to support students with mild disabilities, but not severe disabilities since we do not modify curriculum. Extra support is offered to students struggling to access the curriculum or demonstrate their learning. Our small classroom sizes allows teachers to provide specific attention to students with a learning challenge.

    Academic Support:

    Subject Type	offered
    Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation
    Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties

    Mild but clinically diagnosed ADHD:

    Subject Type	offered
    Accommodations
    Modifications
    Extra support

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    Summary: Astolot provides space for specialists to work with students to receive support for dyslexia, occupational therapy, social skills development and speech-language therapy.

    A - Forms of Support

    Accommodation:

    Modification:

    Remediation:

    B - Environments

    Indirect Support:

    Resource Assistance:

    Withdrawal Assistance:

    Partial Integration:

    Full-Time Class:

    
    

    Special NeedNeed

    Forms of SupportA

    EnvironmentsB

    ADHD

    • Learning disabilities
      Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)

      This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.

      Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

      This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.

      Dyscalculia

      This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.

      Dysgraphia

      This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.

      Language Processing Disorder

      This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.

      Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)

      These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.

      Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit

      A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
    • Developmental
      Autism

      Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).

      Asperger's Syndrome

      On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.

      Down syndrome

      his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.

      Intellectual disability

      This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).

      Williams syndrome

      This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.

      Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

      Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
    • Behavioral and Emotional
      Troubled behaviour / troubled teens

      roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.

      Clinical Depression

      This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.

      Clinical anxiety

      This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.

      Suicidal thoughts

      This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.

      Drug and alcohol abuse

      This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.

      Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

      This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
    • Physical
      Multiple sclerosis

      This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.

      Cerebral palsy

      his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.

      Muscular dystrophy

      Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.

      Spina Bifida

      This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.

      Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)

      This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.

      Blindness

      Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."

      Deafness

      Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).

      Cystic Fibrosis

      Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.

      Multiple physical

      Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.

    Read our guide to special needs schools and special education

  • Gifted learner support Dedicated gifted school
    [Show definition of Gifted learner support]

    Schools support students with gifted or advanced learning abilities in a several ways. Whether they offer a full-time gifted program or part-time support, they normally provide some form of accelerated learning (delivering content at a faster pace) or enrichment (covering content more broadly or deeply). Many schools also offer a wide range of in-class adaptations to support advanced learners, such as guided independent studies, project-based learning, and career exploration.

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    Dedicated gifted programs:

    Program	offered
    Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school)
    Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class)

    Curriculum delivery: Acceleration (The main focus is on acceleration. This means that all students work at a much quicker pace than public school peers (usually working at least one grade-level ahead). )

    In-class adaptations:

    Program	offered
    Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement)
    Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement)
    Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement)
    Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement)
    Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others)
    Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement)
    Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement)
    Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement)
    Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement)

    What Astolot says: Astolot's student population includes approximately 25% gifted students each year. Accommodations are student specific, curriculum choices are made with staff, parent and student input.

  • Language English
    Astolot offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English, French
  • Homework Policy
    [Show definition of Homework Policy]

    Homework is work that's assigned to students for completion outside of regular class time. There's a long-standing debate over homework. Should homework be assigned to school-age children? If so, in what grades? And how much homework should be assigned? In selecting the right school for your child, it's important to look closely at a school's homework policy.

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    In grade Gr. 12, Astolot students perform an average of 2 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
    Astolot	0 mins	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins	120 mins
    Site Average	15 mins	17 mins	24 mins	30 mins	35 mins	41 mins	53 mins	57 mins	69 mins	81 mins	97 mins	106 mins

    What Astolot says about their flipped classroom policy: This information is not currently available.

  • Report Card Policy
    [Show definition of Report Card Policy]

    While all schools measure individual progress and achievement in students, they have different ways of doing this. For instance, many traditional schools gauge progress through report cards, which give students lettered or numbered grades. Other schools, meanwhile, measure progress in other ways, either in addition to or instead of giving grades. For instance, they may offer prose-based feedback (i.e, comments), academic achievement reporting, habits and behaviour reporting, and parent-teacher meetings. In choosing the right school for your child, take a close look at its policy for measuring the individual progress of students.

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    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Lettered or numbered grades	Gr. 7 to Gr. 12
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8
    Academic achievement reporting	Gr. 1 to Gr. 12
    Habits and behaviour reporting	Gr. 1 to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	Gr. 1 to Gr. 12

• Extracurriculars
  [Show definition of Extracurriculars]

  While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.

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  What Astolot says:

  • Ski Club - Wednesday evenings
  • Robotics Club - 2019 2nd place winner for design
  • Chess Club - 2 students have reach Master's level, ability to teach chess
  • Dungeons and Dragons Campaign - Fridays at Lunch
  • Knitting Club - during lunch in the winter

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 4
  Recreational sports: N/A

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Canoeing/Kayaking
  • Cricket
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Cycling
  • Downhill skiing
  • Equestrian
  • Fencing
  • Field Hockey
  • Figure Skating
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics
  • Ice Hockey
  • Ice Skating
  • Lacrosse
  • Martial Arts
  • Mountain biking
  • Racquet Ball
  • Rowing
  • Rugby
  • Running
  • Sailing
  • Skateboarding
  • Snowboarding
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Squash
  • Swimming
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Volleyball
  • Weightlifting
  • Wrestling

  ---

  Clubs offered

  Astolot Educational Centre offers 2 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     Clubs offered           Clubs not offered

  all clubs and programs]

    Foreign Language Club

    Habitat for Humanity

    Jazz Ensemble

    Math Club

    Musical theatre/Opera

    Ballet and Classical Ballet

    Online Magazine

    Outdoor Club

    Outdoor Education

    Paintball

    Photography

    Poetry/Literature club

    Radio club

    Robotics club

    Round Square

    School newspaper

    Science Club

    Scouting

    Student Council

    Yearbook

    Yoga

    Animation

    Art Club

    Astronomy Club

    Audiovisual Club

    Band

    Chess Club

    Choir

    Community Service

    Computer Club

    Dance Club

    Debate Club

    Drama Club

    Environmental Club

  
  
• Tuition & Financial Aid
  [Show definition of Tuition & Financial Aid]

  This can depend on a number of factors, including the type of school, living arrangements, what’s included in tuition, school location, resources, and facilities. Many private schools in Canada have tuition that ranges between $6,000 and $12,000 a year. While some schools, such as schools which provide room and board, can be more expensive, many of these schools provide ways to defray the costs of tuition. For instance, they may offer merit-based scholarships or needs-based financial aid (often referred to as “bursaries” or “subsidies”).

  ---

  Day

   

  	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day	$14,800								$16,300

  
  

  What Astolot says about their tuition: Tuition all school materials (including books, pencils, binders, etc) and all field trips for grade 1 to 8. Computers/tablets and graphing calculators are purchased by families.

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Astolot Educational Centre does not offer need-based financial aid.

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  Astolot Educational Centre does not offer merit-based financial awards.
• Enrolment
  [Show definition of enrolment]

  Private schools come in all shapes and sizes. Some larger schools have enrolment numbers in the thousands, while some smaller schools have only a few dozen students. Boarding schools tend to be on the larger side, while alternative schools, such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Waldorf, are normally smaller. Besides the overall size of school, there are other important facts you’ll want to know about a school’s enrolment. For instance, here you can learn about a school’s enrolment for separate streams (if they have them), such as day and boarding, its average class size, and its average enrolment per grade.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8	Coed	Day	40
  Group 2	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	25

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	65
  Average class size	5 to 10
  % of international students (total enrolment)	0%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	6

  Student Distribution:

  	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Class Size	2	3	2	3	4	6	4	5	6	5	5	4

• Admission
  [Show definition of Admission]

  Private schools in Canada have admissions policies. All schools have some required application materials, though these vary between schools. These may include letters of application, application fees, essays, and exams (such as the SSAT). Many schools also require interviews with prospective students, either with their parents, on their own, or both. Schools also have different standards and priorities when evaluating student applications, different acceptance rates (which may vary between grade levels), and target different kinds of students. To improve your child’s chances of acceptance, you should find out everything you can about a school’s admissions policies and how they assess applicants.

  ---

  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		1 - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: $0
  Registration fee: $0
  Deposit: $1,000

  What Astolot says:

  Step 1 - Parent interview with Administration

  Step 2 - Shadow Day

  Step 3 - Review of relevant reports

  Step 4 - Parent School Conversation

  ---

  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 90%

  This is the percentage of applicants typically accepted into the school. So if 50 students are admitted out of 100 applicants, the school has an overall acceptance rate of 50%.

  
  

  Day Homestay
  

  ---

  Student Entry Points

  This shows approximately how many openings there are likely to be in each grade in a typical year, as well as the estimated acceptance rate for each grade level.

  
  

  Student Type	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	1 - 3 (90%)	1 - 3 (90%)	1 - 4 (100%)	1 - 9 (100%)	1 - 9 (100%)	1 - 9 (100%)	1 - 7 (90%)	1 - 7 (90%)	1 - 7 (80%)	1 - 7 (90%)	1 - 5 (90%)	1 - 5 (80%)
  Homestay Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0

  Type of student Astolot is looking for:
  Astolot attracts students who find large classrooms frustrating due to sensory overload, lack of time with the teacher or require individualized programing.
• University Placement
  [Show definition of University Placement]

  Where graduates of a school do their post-secondary studies can be an important factor in choosing a private school. Do you want your child to go to a Canadian university, an Ivy league school in the US, or some other institute? Regardless of your inclinations, take a look at a school’s university placement record, and the services they offer to support university applications and decisions.

  ---

  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	3
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	100%

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	N/A
  Students who attended a Ivy+ school Number of students in the past 5 years that that attended one of Harvard, Yale, Princeton, University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Stanford, University of Chicago, Oxford or Cambridge (UK)	N/A

  Post-Secondary Schools Attended

  Carleton University																																																			50%
  Algonquin College																					20%
  Trent University											10%
  University of Ottawa											10%

  % of Graduates

  
  

  • Canada 4 universities
    • Algonquin College
    • Carleton University
    • Trent University
    • University of Ottawa

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • Astolot Educational Centre
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  Astolot Educational Centre Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    20% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    70% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    10% - Business/Commerce
    0% - Fine and Performing Arts
    0% - Applied Health Sciences
    0% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    0% - Other
  

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    26% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    25% - Business/Commerce
    4% - Fine and Performing Arts
    13% - Applied Health Sciences
    2% - Applied Professional Studies (Post-grad certificate / diploma)
    6% - Other
  

  
  

  Services Offered to Students

  Career planning
  Internships	N/A

  Mentorship Program	N/A
  University counseling

  What Astolot says:

  • Our students meet success in their chosen University or College because they are prepared academically and have the ability to advocate for themselves.
• Principal's Message
  Jennifer Cowan, Principal and Owner

  Bachelor of Arts, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario1984 Bachelor of Education, Queen's University, Ontario1988 Master of Education, University of Ottawa, Ontario 1997

  Welcome to Astolot! 

  We are a small, not-for-profit, Ministry Inspected private school with grades 1 to 12. We believe that structured, individual learning, allows students to reach their full potential. Students who are considered gifted have the opportunity to excel and be challenged, while additionally students are accommodated or offered alternative programming to meet their learning needs. Our classroom ratio is small, approximately 1 teacher to 10 students, and we emphasize life skills in all aspects in school.

  Principal Jennifer Cowan 

  
• In the News
  

  May 29, 2020
  Supporting Teens During Covid-19

  Structure, Mindfulness, Social and Emotional Regulation, together with his everyday online schooling has helped my son continue to grow in
  Read full article

  

  May 29, 2020
  ONLINE ASTOLOT

  March 23, 2020 Astolot began offering all classes from gr. 1 to 12 online. Students and teachers are working together.Stay safe and healthy.
  Read full article

  
  

  Read more school news
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