Bishop Hamilton Montessori School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Montessori
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Phonics-intensive
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Social Studies : Core Knowledge
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Pragmatism
    • Foreign Languages: Equal Balance
    • Fine Arts: Equal Balance
    • Computers and Technology: Light integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Religious Education: 11 to 25% of curriculum
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Montessori Approach:
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Montessori
  • Curriculum Pace: Student-paced
  • Academic Culture: Supportive
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: Withdrawal Assistance
  • Gifted learner support: Dedicated class; in-class adaptations
  • Language: English
  • Homework Policy:
  • Report Card Policy:

  
  

  • Curriculum Montessori
    [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 BHMS: Montessori

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

    [Show: About Montessori?]

    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.

    Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Montessori - 10%
      Traditional - 44%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 27%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    What BHMS says: BHMS offers a Christian based Montessori education in a safe community where infants to young adolescents are encouraged to reach their full developmental potential.

    Montessori offered:

    Program	offered
    Montessori toddler
    Casa
    Elementary
    Middle School
    High School

    Approach:

    Focus	Religious-based
    Academic	Christian (Non-denominational)

    If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    If you want to learn more about Christian education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at BHMS: Equal Balance

      BHMS 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 BHMS says: The math materials, like all other classroom materials, focus first on the concrete and then move toward abstraction. Students first focus on the numbers one to ten, mastering quantity, then the symbol and finally associating the two. A complete comprehension of this first stage is essential as it lays a solid foundation for future work in the decimal system. Students are exposed to the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division before they leave the Casa program. There are five strands in the Ontario Grade 7 & 8 Curriculum. Our program meets and exceeds the requirements for both levels, not only by incorporating material from grade 9, but also by requiring students to conduct higher order thinking in math seminar and math projects.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: This information is not currently available.

      Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

    • Early Reading Phonics-intensive
      Early Reading approach at BHMS: Phonics-intensive

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

      [Show: About Phonics-intensive?]

      Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

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

      What BHMS says: In the language portion of the curriculum Casa students begin by identifying sounds and later associating them with letters. Later, students apply this knowledge to phonics and reading. In the Montessori system students first learn to write and then to read.

      DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at BHMS: Equal balance

      BHMS 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 BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at BHMS: Equal Balance

      BHMS 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: Science is an integral part of the Montessori classroom curriculum from Casa through Junior High. As students join the Senior Elementary classroom they are introduced to an enriched science program conducted by the science specialist in a carefully designed student-friendly laboratory. In this environment students conduct a variety of experiments, learning about such topics as biology, physics, optics, anatomy, astronomy, genetics, and aerodynamics. This hands-on approach to learning what is often only taught through textbooks instills in students a passion for exploration and discovery. Since research at BHMS is not limited by age, only by imagination, students are able to conduct independent research on topics of personal interest. They then present their conclusions in local and regional science fairs where BHMS consistently rates among the top schools in the region.

      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 BHMS: Equal Balance

      BHMS 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 BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

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

      BHMS 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 BHMS says: Throughout the elementary program students are exposed with increasing detail to the Great Stories: Creation of the Universe, Timeline of Life, Timeline of Humans, The Story of Numbers and The Story of Language. Montessori lessons address reading, writing, mathematics, geometry, physics, chemistry, biology, economics, history, art, geology and geography. The Montessori concepts and skills development are an enriched program with a lot of scope.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Pragmatism
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at BHMS: Pragmatism

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

      [Show: About Pragmatism?]

      Pragmatism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes making learning relevant to students’ present-day experience. Assignments tend to centre around projects and tasks rather than argumentative essays; these projects will often have a “real-world” application or relevance. There might be more of a social justice component to a pragmatic program, though that isn’t always the case. Subjects like history and philosophy are still covered/offered, but they play a less prominent role in the overall program than in the case of perennialism. The social sciences (contemporary geography, sociology, psychology, etc), meanwhile, might play a more prominent role in pragmatic programs. The key goals are to make learning progressive and relevant, while teaching students real-life skills and critical thinking.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

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

      What BHMS says: BHMS offers an adolescent program within the context of the regular Montessori school, providing a supportive learning environment specially tailored to meet the needs of adolescents. Happy and healthy teenage experiences are essential for developing the coping skills and knowledge for successful adulthood. To this end, the integrated program of study for the BHMS Junior High follows Dr. Montessori’s Educational Syllabus for the adolescent: Self Expression: Music, Writing Workshops & Language Arts, Art, Physical Education Psychic Development: Moral Education, Mathematics, Languages (French) Preparation for Adult Life: Study of the Earth & Living Things (Physical Geography, Biology, Anatomy, Astronomy) Study of Human Progress & the Development of Civilization (Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Genetics, History of Science & Technology) Study of History of Humanity (History of Exploration & Settlement, Political Geography, Environmental Studies, Religion, Peace & Conflict Studies, Law & Government, Literature/ Novel Study, National history & Current Events).

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

      BHMS 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 BHMS says: The study of French is of utmost importance at Bishop Hamilton Montessori School where students begin their daily language study while still in the Casa program. As students progress through the levels their mastery of the language intensifies as does their understanding of Francophone culture and literature. Harnessing Ottawa’s geographic location and bilingual nature the French program conducts field-trips, culminating in annual trips to visit nearby Francophone cities of Montreal and Quebec in grades six through eight. Students graduating from grade eight of the Junior High program have successfully completed the French immersion language curriculum that is introduced at grade 10 in the public immersion system. By moulding students’ linguistic capabilities from such a tender age, and in small-group settings, they are able to become fully assimilated into the bilingual mosaic of Canada’s National Capital Region.

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

      BHMS 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 - 61%
        Receptive - 2%
        Creative - 37%
      

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What BHMS says: Beginning in the Casa level and beyond, students meet with the Music Specialist where they are introduced gradually to music theory and expression. In grade 4 students begin exploring different musical instruments and, later, are integrated into the school band. Additionally, vocal skills are honed and refined through learning and performing choral music. The BHMS passion for music and performance is evidenced through annual concerts that bring together students of all ages, as well as the staging of some popular musicals, complete with set design, costuming, and theatrics, all developed by the students. Creative expression is an important outlet for students. The Art curriculum aims to inspire students to express feelings, ideas, and issues using a variety of medians such as: two and three dimensional forms and Multimedia Art. Students learn to apply the critical analysis process to communicate feelings, ideas and understanding of Socio-cultural and Historical Contexts.

    • Computers and Technology Light integration
      Computers and Technology approach at BHMS: Light integration

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

      [Show: About Light integration?]

      Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

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

      What BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What BHMS says: Students at BHMS learn from a young age that a healthy mind thrives in a healthy body. Once students reach the third year of Casa they progress to classes lead by the physical education specialist in our gym or outside. These classes, taught three times weekly, teach the importance of exercise as part of a routine, the rules of certain sports and good sportsmanship. Students participate in city-wide sporting events as well as in athletic competitions with other schools. The Junior High Physical and Health Education program, taught in French and English, introduces a variety of sports, games, and outdoor pursuits. We participate in cross-country running, soccer, floor hockey, track and field, as well as, an extensive cycling program. The health curriculum uses the Ontario curriculum documents as a guide.

    • Religious Education 11 to 25% of curriculum

      What BHMS says: Students, beginning in the Casa level, participate in regular Atrium classes. The Atrium is a peaceful environment of spiritual meditation and Christian education where students actively participate in developing their own spirituality through work, prayer and reflection. Sofia Cavalletti, developer of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, stressed that all children have spiritual needs and religious potential. In order to engage this aspect of a child’s mind, Cavalletti developed a catechesis program that teaches in-line with the Montessori Method of Education. The Atrium catechists employ this program to instruct students in Christian concepts and themes. Students of all ages receive the lessons and explorations appropriate to their particular stage of psychological, intellectual and spiritual development.

    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at BHMS: Not Ontario curriculum

      BHMS has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).

      [Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]

      The sex education curriculum does NOT follow the provincial one taught in public schools - either in terms of structure, pacing, focus, and/or tone.

      Sex and health education at schools on OurKids.net

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

      Approach to sex and health education: Fairly value-based

      BHMS 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 .

      What BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Religious Education

    • Sex and health education
  • Montessori Approach
    School Policies

    	Toddler	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 12	12 to 14
    Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.'	–	–	3 hours	3 hours	3 hours
    Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.'	–	–	–	–	–
    Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.'	–	–	–	–	–
    Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.'	–	–	–	–	–

    Classroom Practices:

    This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Overall approach : Which option best describes your overall curricular approach?

    Orthodox

    35% of schools

    Schools that adhere strictly to the original Montessori program. They follow Montessori principles to the letter.

    Moderately Orthodox

    48% of schools

    Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Moderately Non-Orthodox

    13% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but sometimes supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

    Non-orthodox

    4% of schools

    Schools that are faithful to the original Montessori program and principles, but often supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.

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    Teaching Assistants:

    This school uses teaching assistants.
  • Preschool/K Curriculum Montessori
    [Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

    Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at BHMS: Montessori

    BHMS has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).

    [Show: About Montessori?]

    Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
    
    If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Montessori - 26%
      Play-based - 23%
      Waldorf - 2%
      Reggio emilia - 6%
      Academic - 43%
    

    What BHMS says: Students progress and learn at their own pace. For this reason fast learners are not held back and slower learners are not frustrated by their inability to keep up. Classrooms consist of mixed ages 3 to 6 and provide a family life setting where learning takes place naturally. This approach recognizes learning as a social process and provides opportunities for older students to mentor the younger ones. The curriculum develops spoken and written language, reading, mathematics, the natural sciences and the arts.

  • Curriculum Pace Student-paced
    [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 BHMS: Student-paced

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

    [Show: About Student-paced?]

    The main curriculum pace is non-standardized and is HIGHLY responsive to the pacing of individual students, (via differentiated instruction, differentiated assessment, etc). In theory, some students outpace the default/normalized curriculum, while others spend periods "behind schedule" if they need the extra time.

    Curriculum Pace at schools on OurKids.net

      Student-paced - 24%
      Standard-enriched - 59%
      Accelerated - 17%
    

    What BHMS says: Lessons are tailored to meet the individual needs of students. Students work at their own level and pace ensuring that no student gets frustrated by being left behind or by becoming bored.

    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 BHMS says about flexible pacing: This information is not currently available.

  • 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 BHMS: Supportive

    BHMS 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 BHMS says: The School works collaboratively with parents teachers and students to foster the development of each child. The outcome of this partnership is our Portrait of a Graduate which consists of following skills and attributes: academically prepared, leader, independent thinker, intrinsically motivated, socially responsible, respecter of all persons, competent learner, confident, creative thinker, collaborative worker, protector the environment, engaged community citizen, secure with their relationship with God. Portrait of a Graduate illustrates the skills and attributes BHMS students can develop when parents and teachers work collaboratively to foster the development of their child’s academic, social, emotional, and spiritual development.

  • Developmental priorities Balanced
    [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: Balanced

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

    Secondary Developmental Priority: Spiritual

    The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."

    What BHMS says: The academic, spiritual, physical and social growth of each student is achieved through two methods: the Christian message of the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and the Montessori approach as outlined by the Association Montessori Internationale and the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators (CCMA).

  • Special needs support
    [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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    What BHMS says about their special need support: This information is not currently available.

    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

    ---

    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 class; in-class adaptations
    [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.

    ---

    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: Enrichment (The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.)

    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 BHMS says: This information is not currently available.

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

    Language of enrollment include: English
  • 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.

    ---

    In grade Gr. 6, BHMS students perform an average of No homework of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6
    BHMS	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins	0 mins
    Site Average	0 mins	2 mins	6 mins	7 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	30 mins	35 mins	41 mins

    What BHMS 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.

    ---

    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Lettered or numbered grades	Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8
    Parent-teacher meetings	Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8

• 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.

  ---

  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: 13
  Recreational sports: 5

  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

  Bishop Hamilton Montessori School offers 10 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

   

  	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day	$16,765	$12,705		$12,960	$15,390						$16,495

  
  

  What BHMS says about their tuition: This information is not currently available.

  ---

  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	20%
  3rd child (sibling)	all students	25%

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	NS to 8
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	0%
  Average aid package size	$0
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	0%
  Total aid available	$0

  Application Deadline:

  N/A  (Repeats annually)

  More information:

  www.applefinancial.ca

  Application Details:

  This school works with Apple Financial Inc. for processing financial applications
  As a registered Christian non-profit Canadian charity, Bishop Hamilton Montessori School has a subsidy program which serves to offer financial aid to families with financial need. The program allows BHMS to maintain a diversity of students and families in its community by providing financial assistance to those who would not, otherwise, be able to attend BHMS. No more than 50% of the tuition of our core program will be covered by the subsidy. Financial Need will be determined by Apple Financial Services, an external company that will assess the family’s finances and recommend the amount of money the family can afford to pay for tuition. Apple Financial Services has been providing bursary and financial assistance analysis to private schools across Canada since 1993. This organization provides an unbiased evaluation of the applicant’s financial resources and ability to fund their children’s private education.

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  Bishop Hamilton Montessori School 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	Nursery/Toddler to Gr. 8	Coed	Day	200

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	200
  Average class size	Varies
  % of international students (total enrolment)	0%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	N/A

  Student Distribution:

  This information is not currently available.

• 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		NS - 8
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: N/A
  Registration fee: N/A
  Deposit: N/A

  What BHMS says:

  The admission process at BHMS consists of the following: School Tour / Open House After initial inquiry, both parents attend an open house or schedule a tour of the school. This is an opportunity for parents to visit our school, see our facility, and meet with our staff. Parent Information Portfolio After a school tour our Director of Admissions will provide prospective parents with a Parent Information Package and review its contents. The Information Package contains information about our school and includes: BHMS Program Guide, Parent Handbook, Parent/School Partnership Agreement, Financial Handbook, Application for Enrolment and information about School Uniforms. Classroom Observation An essential part of the admissions process, the classroom observation affords parents the opportunity to see our classroom and teachers in action. Meeting with School Director Classroom Observations are followed by a meeting with the School Director who will address additional parent inquires. The decision for acceptance of enrolment to BHMS is made by the School Director. Enrolment Parents inform BHMS Director of Admissions their intent to enrol and complete the Application for Enrolment. Director of Admissions forwards Enrolment Contract for parent review and coordinates a meeting with parents to finalize enrolment.

  ---

  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 99%

  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
  

  ---

  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	NS	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	1 - 30 (99%)	1 - 80 (99%)	1 - 26 (99%)	1 - 26 (99%)	1 - 16 (99%)	1 - 16 (99%)	1 - 16 (99%)	1 - 10 (99%)	1 - 10 (99%)	1 - 10 (99%)	1 - 15 (99%)	1 - 15 (99%)

  Type of student BHMS is looking for:
  This information is not currently available.
• Notable Alumni
  [Show definition of Notable Alumni]

  Many private schools in Canada have numerous graduates who have gone on to great things. Learn about a school’s most influential, important, successful, and famous alumni.

  ---

  Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
  Peter Hayman	2005	I've been awarded an Internship to work on a Physics experiment. I'll be helping to write code for a detector for the yet-to-be-constructed International Linear Collider.

• Principal's Message
  Renette Sasouni, School Director

  Since opening our doors in 1983, the National Capital Region has come to recognize Bishop Hamilton Montessori School as a leader in education beginning at 3 months of age and continuing through to grade eight.

  As School Director, I am proud of our student-body and the BHMS community at large. The school community has created an environment that strives for excellence not only within the classroom but also when looking outwards to the world around them. BHMS students and graduates come to appreciate the vast and diverse world around them through studying different cultures and through participating in charities both locally and internationally.

  The value of learning Christian principles and charity in the context of a multicultural and religiously diverse student body prepares students to partake fully in the Canadian cultural mosaic. By stressing the importance and interconnectedness of people around the world, students also learn about the interconnectedness of the subjects that they study, thus fortifying BHMS’s academic excellence. Through this model, students aspire to become well-rounded citizens from an early age; this aspiration serves to motivate students to develop a passion and hunger for knowledge that they will carry with them through life.

  Selecting a school that focuses on your child’s academic, social and spiritual growth is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Bishop Hamilton Montessori School looks forward to partnering with you every step of the way.

  Together we can unlock your child’s potential.

  
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