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Hear directly from Avalon Children's Montessori School community as they share insights into the Academics.
Avalon Montessori has a Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
Avalon adheres to the Montessori principles of education at the early childhood and elementary school levels. Avalon’s Casa Program is a prepared space where social skills flourish. Children are free to work independently or collaborate with their peers, learning the value of cooperation and respect. Avalon’s Elementary Program is an interdisciplinary environment where academic curiosity and social development converge. Students engage in collaborative projects and peer teaching, transitioning from individual exploration to a deep-rooted sense of community. Avalon's Middle School uses a low pressure interdisciplinary approach which encourages learners to become active participants in their education, building the leadership skills and social-emotional strength necessary to navigate the transition to high school.
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
| Focus |
|---|
| Academic |
Avalon Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
Mathematics are an exciting part of the Montessori classroom. In the early grades ( K - grade 3) students use specially designed concrete Montessori materials to explore mathematic concepts. Our older elementary Montessori students ( Grades 4 - 6) begin to move away from the materials to a more abstract study of increasingly complex mathematics, geometry, and algebra. At this point, the JUMP method is introduced as it complements the Montessori approach. Middle school students use the JUMP method and their work is often supplemented with text books at a grade level ahead.
The Montessori materials are used throughout and JUMP is introduced around Grade 4. Students in grade 4 - 6 use a combination of Montessori materials and JUMP while middle school students use the JUMP method.
A calculator is a mathematical tool and students are encouraged to use this tool appropriately.
Avalon Montessori has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
Language is an integral part of the Montessori Casa classroom and is fostered through encouragement of self-expression, lessons and freedom of conversation.The language materials introduce the phonetic sound of each letter in the alphabet. Using these sounds, the child is able to build words, thus begins the process of reading. Along with preparatory exercises in Practical Life and Sensorial Education, language materials also foster muscle control for printing.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
This information is not currently available.
Avalon Montessori has a Process approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Equal balance approach).
Language is an integral part of the Montessori Casa classroom and is fostered through encouragement of self-expression, lessons and freedom of conversation.The language materials introduce the phonetic sound of each letter in the alphabet. Using these sounds, the child is able to build words, thus begins the process of reading. Along with preparatory exercises in Practical Life and Sensorial Education, language materials also foster muscle control for printing. In the Montessori classroom, students learn to write before they read and the process is referred to as word building. At the early elementary level, students are encouraged to write on a daily basis using meaningful activities.
Avalon Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
At the elementary level, science is part of our culture curriculum and encompasses physical geography, botany and zoology. Students are encouraged to explore at their own pace with guidelines set out by the teacher. Exploration includes research, experimentation, class discussions and projects. Middle School science is a distinct subject and students have the opportunity to explore concepts that have been introduced by the teacher.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Evolution as consensus theory | |
| Evolution as one of many equally viable theories | |
| Evolution is not taught |
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Biology | |
| Chemistry | |
| Ecology | |
| Geology | |
| Meteorology | |
| Physics | |
| Physiology | |
| Zoology |
Avalon Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
At a young age, our students are encouraged to read for pleasure. As they move through the Elementary grades, literature is explored through the Junior Great Books program ( grades 4 -6) and through intriguing and compelling novels. Students are encouraged to respond to literature not simply read it, to draw comparisons between different pieces of literature, to make connections not only to their to their own lives and experiences but to both contemporary and historical issues. Discussions are encouraged and form an integral part of the curriculum.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Canadian lit | |
| American lit | |
| European (continental) lit | |
| World (non-Western) lit | |
| English lit | |
| Ancient lit |
Avalon Montessori has a Thematic approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Expanding Communities approach).
Using the fundamental needs of humankind as our foundation, Elementary students are able to explore different cultures and different time periods. Students make connections and draw parallels based on their understanding that there are certain commonalities between humans. Cosmic education is a key component of the Montessori curriculum, encouraging students to see the interconnectedness between all living things.
Avalon Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
The Humanities and Social Science courses for our middle school students encourage active exploration of the ways in which people, places, and events have - and continue to - shape our world today. Students develop critical thinking skills as they carry out assignments designed to help them view issues and events, both past and present, in the context of social justice. These assignments combine the "Big Ideas" outlined in the Ontario curriculum with the student-centred approach of Montessori pedagogy. Each year students participate in the Student Vote program by CIVIX Canada, and are always excited to cast their ballot in current Municipal, Provincial, or Federal elections. They are also exposed to national and global current events through the What in the World? resource, which enhances their understanding and encourages interest in issues affecting our world today.
Avalon Montessori has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
French is introduced to the students at the early Elementary level.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Chinese-Cantonese | |
| Chinese-Mandarin | |
| French | |
| German | |
| Greek | |
| Italian | |
| Japanese | |
| Hebrew | |
| Latin | |
| Russian | |
| Spanish | |
| ESL |
Avalon Montessori has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Acting | |
| Dance | |
| Drama/Theatre | |
| Graphic Design | |
| Music | |
| Visual Arts |
| Expressive | |
| Disciplined |
The Arts are an integral part of the program at Avalon. Our students engage in music, drama, dance and visual arts classes with an emphasis on exploration and creativity. Passionate and qualified instructors work with the students on a regular basis. Both our Fine Arts and Drama programs enable the students to enhance the depth and breadth of their creative expression and allow for intuitive responses to creating and exploring art. Emphasis and focus is placed on the creative process itself, while engaging the students with blended inquiry-based learning and active hands-on art-making. Drama culminates in an annual production that is staged at The Papermill Theatre.
Avalon Montessori has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
Technology is an integral part of life in our society and our school reflects that. Computers are used by the students in Grades 4 - 8. Middle school students use digital devices - computers, tablets, phones on a daily basis. They are provided with access to an online study tool called StudySmart, developed by a former Avalon parent, to aid them as they plan and organize their personal tasks and assignments. Students build on their technological skills and understanding as they begin to integrate web and app-based programs into their assignments and presentations. Avalon continues to explore the ways in which technology can support the varied learning needs of all students.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Computer science | |
| Robotics | |
| Web design |
Our physical education program is driven by our philosophy which stresses balanced opportunities in skills acquisition, leadership athletics, personal growth and healthy competition. Our goal is for students to develop healthy habits that will remain with them for life. All students are members of the cross country and track and field teams and participate in a variety of sports, onsite and in the community. These include skiing, snowboarding, and tennis. On a competitive level, Avalon is very successful at both cross country and track and field. We currently hold the trophy for the senior track and field event and look forward to defending our title.
Avalon Montessori has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
Our sex-ed curriculum is part of our health program and follows the guidelines set out by the Ministry of Education. The curriculum is developmentally appropriate, factual, holistic and delivered without moral comment. We believe the teaching of values in this area should be done within the family.
Avalon Montessori has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
The Montessori Casa program provides a prepared environment for children ages 2 1/2 to 6 years. The didactic materials used in the classroom are based on the pedagogy developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, and aid the child in the learning process. Spontaneous and self-directed learning is fostered in this non-competitive environment. Children are free to work independently or in collaboration with peers, gaining important social skills. Self-esteem and confidence develop as children explore with the materials and master important developmental skills. Avalon offers half day, full day and 3 full day Kindergarten options.
Avalon Children's Montessori School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
3 to 6 | 6 to 9 | 9 to 11 | 11 to 14 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Never (Orthodox) | Occasionally (Moderate Orthodox) | Semi-regularly (Moderately Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
5% | 5% | 0% | 0% |
Moderately Orthodox
45% of schools
Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
This school uses teaching assistants.
There are TA's in the Casa and Lower Elementary classrooms. They are an integral part of the team and support the classroom teachers and students in all areas of school life.
Learn about Avalon Children's Montessori School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Avalon Montessori has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
Students progress through the 'lessons' at their own pace, supported by their teachers. Avalon students work at a pace suitable for them - advanced students are continually challenged while other students are given the time and supports necessary to fully grasp a concept before moving on.
| Type | 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 |
Flexible pacing allows the students to fully comprehend a concept before being 'forced' to move on. Differentiated instruction allows students to work at their own pace, remaining engaged and challenged.
Avalon Montessori has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
Because of our small class sizes and supportive approach, Avalon is often able to enhance the curriculum to include student interests, making classroom experiences more exciting and promoting greater student engagement. Students are intrinsically motivated as they have the chance to explore areas of interest and engage in further learning. Our teachers emphasize the development of organizational skills and explore methods with our students to help them achieve their educational goals.
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Avalon fosters the development of the whole child; intellectiual, emotional, social, physical and balanced. Our goal is to position our children for a successful future, whatever that may be. We encourage our students to be actively involved in their own education, to follow their passions, to explore new ideas, to take risks, to collaborate.
Students remain in a regular classroom for most of the day, but are pulled out for extra support from a qualified special education teacher.
For students in Grades 1 through 8 who require additional help with time management, organization, or academic catch-up, we offer a dedicated Learning Support Program that provides the extra time and attention they need to succeed. Avalon's Learning Support Program is carefully designed to support students with diagnosed learning disabilities and IEPs. The goal of the program is to support the academic, social, emotional and physical development of the student. Support will be given in a variety of ways, including indirect support, resource assistance, withdrawal assistance and special education within an integrated program. Program specifics are based on the individual needs of the student, in collaboration with the support team and parents/guardians. Space in this program is limited.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
We are an inclusive school. Our educators are specialists in applying the Montessori curriculum to your child’s specific learning needs. We work with you to help your child find and build the tools they need to support and regulate themselves. In accordance with the Montessori philosophy, we strive to meet the needs of the child. Accommodations, modifications and extra support are an innate part of our school culture as we strive to embrace the uniqueness of all our students. For those students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities and ADHD, we offer a unique Learning Support Program (LSP).
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
| 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) |
Support will be given to our gifted students in a variety of ways, including indirect support, resource assistance, withdrawal assistance and special education within an integrated program. Program specifics are based on the individual needs of the student, in collaboration with the support team and parents/guardians. Avalon has a rich history of supporting gifted students with graduates currently excelling at the secondary and post secondary levels.
In grade Gr. 8, Avalon Montessori students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon Montessori | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
This information is not currently available.
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 7 to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to Gr. 6 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
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