City Academy

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional
    • Mathematics: Traditional Math
    • Science: Expository
    • Literature: Equal Balance
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Perennialism
    • Foreign Languages: Equal Balance
    • Fine Arts: Receptive
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Advanced Placement courses: 3 courses
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Intellectual
  • Special needs support: Indirect Support
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • 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 City Academy: Traditional

    City Academy 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 - 42%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 28%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 2%
    

    What City Academy says: Our curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students who intend to seek entry into post-secondary education (mostly universities). We offer all of the credit courses needed to gain entry into Arts, Business, Science and Social Science programs. Because teachers face students with little or no interruption, and we have very small classes, we have the time to complete, review and enrich course content. In addition, our teachers have been workshopped in Teaching/Learning Styles, Study Skills, Note Taking Skills and Exam Writing Skills. All of these are addressed within the context of course delivery. We enhance our curriculum with the ability to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Supplementary Calculus and ACT prep courses and small non-credit workshops in a variety of supplementary courses designed to improve student work habits.

    Approach:

    Focus
    Academic

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Traditional Math
      Mathematics approach at City Academy: Traditional Math

      City Academy has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Traditional Math?]

      Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Traditional math - 29%
        Discovery math - 4%
        Equal balance - 67%
      

      What City Academy says: The achievement of a senior mathematics credit is becoming increasingly important to all students entering university. We are proud that all of our math teachers are specialists and are knowledgeable about the content of all high school math courses, as well as math courses which will be taken at university. Because of the focused approach of the timetable, students who have had difficulty with mathematics in previous grades are surprised at how easily the concepts are learned in a small group setting with an excellent teacher. We also provide our students the support to enter the Waterloo University math contests such as the Euclid (grade 12) and Pascal (grade 11). Our students have excelled in these contests, earning marks in the top 20 percentile.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: City Academy uses textbooks which support the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum and are approved by the Ministry. In some specialized courses a teacher-generated Course Reader is provided.

      Calculator policy: All students are allowed to use calculators. Depending on the subject and the teacher some use may be restricted.

    • Science Expository
      Science approach at City Academy: Expository

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

      [Show: About Expository?]

      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.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 23%
        Equal balance - 72%
      

      Teaching approach: Many of our students wish to enter university in science programs. Our science staff represents expertise in all three science disciplines: biology, physics, chemistry, and all are passionate about their subject area. We are proud that in the science department we have teachers with Master’s degrees and PhDs, thus offering our students a wealth of experience and content expertise. In the past we have placed students into very competitive university science programs and all have reported that they felt they were exceptionally well prepared and could take their place equally beside all other students.

      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 City Academy: Equal Balance

      City Academy 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 - 77%
        Traditional - 19%
        Social justice - 4%
      

      What City Academy says: The English department is rich in talent and experience. Several of our teachers are published authors and columnists. All have a passion for their subject and are flexible in how they deliver course content. All have a fervent belief that the goal of the English program is to produce students whose reading and writing skills will assist them in all of life’s challenges. Returning students comment that the English instruction they received at City Academy prepared them very well for the challenges of university essay writing. We offer a wide variety of English courses to meet the needs and interests of all students.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Perennialism
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at City Academy: Perennialism

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

      [Show: About Perennialism?]

      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. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 10%
        Equal balance - 84%
      

      What City Academy says: We offer all of the social science and Canadian and world studies subjects included in the Ontario curriculum. In this department our teachers, with degrees focusing on history, psychology, geography, law, politics and philosophy, offer an approach that brings the everyday world into the classroom. These classes are very interactive. Parents often comment that the content of these courses are brought home to foster many interesting family discussions. In addition to regular course offerings in this area, we have enriched our program with IDC (interdisciplinary) courses in Film Studies, History of Art and Financial Securities.

    • Foreign Languages Equal Balance
      Foreign Languages approach at City Academy: Equal Balance

      City Academy 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 City Academy says: Our Language/Classical Studies department is small, but talented. We have teachers who can teach French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Japanese and German. In the past we have offered courses in Mandarin and we were proud that, one of our students, because of the instruction she received at City Academy, entered the University of British Columbia in the faculty of Asian Studies. Also, one of the most popular history courses in our school is Classical Civilizations.

    • Fine Arts Receptive
      Fine Arts approach at City Academy: Receptive

      City Academy has a Receptive approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Creative , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Receptive?]

      Receptive arts programs emphasize art history (visual, music, theatre, etc) and appreciation over creating or “making” art. Students learn about various artistic works and movements, and are asked to reflect on their underlying aesthetic features and principles. The goal is to give students a core body of knowledge related to the arts, while developing their cognitive, emotional, and aesthetic sensibilities. Studio-work is still a component of most reflective programs, but it plays less of a role than in creative programs.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

        Receptive - 2%
        Creative - 37%
        Equal balance - 61%
      

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What City Academy says: We are fortunate to have on staff teachers with unique skills in art, film, photography, and music and computers. The school’s belief is that art is a reflection of our society and therefore all students should be exposed to new art experiences. The success of these art programs is reflected in the fact that every year we place students into OCAD, Sheridan College and film studies programs at various universities. Because of our unique Music and Computers course there is a growing student interest in post-secondary courses focused on the music industry. With the assistance of our talented, creative and inspiring teachers, many of our students have discovered a talent in art that they had not previously realized they possessed. And, although art may not be a career choice, they recognize that by taking art courses they will be more knowledgeable future consumers of art.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at City Academy: Medium integration

      City Academy 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 City Academy says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What City Academy says: We offer the grade 12 Physical Education credit in Exercise Science. It is a subject of special interest to our student athletes and those who are pursuing a career in Kinesiology and/or Physiotherapy.

    • Advanced Placement courses 3 courses
      AP Physics 1

      AP Biology

      AP Calculus AB
    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at City Academy: Not Ontario curriculum

      City Academy 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: Mostly value-neutral

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

      [Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]

      By and large, students are taught about sex free of any particular moral or ethical standpoint. The school doesn't impose any particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) on students when teaching sex and related issues.

      What City Academy says: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Science

    • Literature

    • 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 City Academy: Standard-enriched

    City Academy 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 City Academy says: Because our school and classes are very small we have the flexibility to implement courses to meet the wishes of specific individuals. Therefore, courses meeting interests in specialized areas are common. Students enjoy courses focused on journalism, specific math interests, artistic talents and scientific research.

    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 City Academy says about flexible pacing: Many City Academy students are actively involved in extra-curriculum activities which restricts their ability to achieve academic success within the regular timetable. Therefore, we offer many flexible timetabling opportunities.

  • Academic Culture Rigorous
    [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 City Academy: Rigorous

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

    [Show: About Rigorous?]

    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Rigorous - 50%
      Supportive - 50%
    

    What City Academy says: All City Academy students aspire to post-secondary education. Recognizing that universities and colleges are requiring an increasingly high student academic proficiency, our program focuses on building the skills, knowledge and attitudes which will assure success in higher education.

  • 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 City Academy says: Self-actualization, both academically and personally, is the focus at City Academy. It is our aim that our students become adults who are well-balanced, self-aware and prepared to make the maximum positive contribution to society.

  • 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 City Academy says about their special need support: City Academy has an excellent track record of accommodating previously identified students. If difficulties arise while students are enrolled at City Academy, in consultation with parents a plan is designed. In some cases the support of a professional psychologist is suggested. In others, special program delivery and counselling within the school are implemented.

    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: -

    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 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.

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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: This information is not currently available.

    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 City Academy says: The structure of the City Academy program supports gifted students, giving them the opportunity to move quickly, to work with exceptionally qualified teachers and to receive enrichment on an individual basis.

  • Language English
    City Academy 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.

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    In grade Gr. 12, City Academy students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	9	10	11	12
    City Academy	90 mins	90 mins	90 mins	90 mins
    Site Average	70 mins	81 mins	98 mins	107 mins

    What City Academy 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. 7 to Gr. 12
    Parent-teacher meetings	Gr. 7 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 City Academy says:

  • Many of our students are world class athletes and/or are involved in extracurricular activities outside of the school.

  Sports offered

  City Academy does not offer any competitive or recreational sports.

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  Clubs offered

  City Academydoes not offer any clubs or extracurricular programs.

• 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”).

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  Day

   

  	9	10	11	12
  Day	$12,800

  
  

  What City Academy says about their tuition: Tuition at City Academy is paid on a per-course basis. Fees are due prior to the start of each semester.

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  Need-based financial aid

  City Academy does not offer need-based financial aid.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  City Academy 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.

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  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Gr. 9 to Gr. 12	Coed	Day	Varies

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	Varies
  Average class size	1 to 8
  % of international students (total enrolment)	0%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	0

  Student Distribution:

  	9	10	11	12
  Day Enrollment	4	8	22	86

• 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.

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  Application

  Admissions Assessments:

  Assessment	Required	Grades
  Interview		9 - 12
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

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  Fees:

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

  What City Academy says:

  Students interested in attending City Academy's day school program should contact the school to schedule an appointment. A marks transcript should be brought to this meeting. 

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  Acceptance

  Acceptance Rate: 100%

  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
  

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  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	9	10	11	12
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	0	0	0	0

  Type of student City Academy is looking for:
  Students who attend City Academy are university/college bound and are looking for a small focused setting where their maximum academic potential can be realized. City Academy students enter the school with the goal of achieving their post-secondary aspirations and are prepared to take ownership for their own success. Students are ready to take advantage of the supportive environment offered by the teaching staff and the structure of the school. The school’s small class sizes and the flexible structure of our timetable allows student programs to be tailored to meet individual learning styles and strengths. Students who require a more concentrated, accelerated or flexible educational program are able to take credits in a private or semi-private manner. We have had many student athletes find this option the best educational fit for their busy training schedules.
• 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.

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  Key Numbers

  Average graduating class size	40
  Students accepted into post-secondary studies upon graduation	100%

  Percentage of students who attend post-secondary institutions outside of Canada	10%
  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

  
  

  • Canada 10 universities
    • Concordia University
    • Dalhousie University
    • Huron University College
    • McGill University
    • Queen's University
    • Ryerson University
    • University of British Columbia
    • University of Guelph
    • University of Toronto
    • University of Waterloo
  • United States 3 universities
    • Rice University
    • University of Illinois, Chicago
    • University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
  • International 1 university
    • University of Warwick

  
  

  Areas of Study

  • City Academy
  • OurKids.net Site Average

  City Academy Graduates’ Post-Secondary Studies:

  This information is not currently available.

  Aggregate of All Schools’ Post-Secondary Studies:

    24% - Liberal Arts and Sciences
    25% - Engineering and Applied Sciences
    25% - Business/Commerce
    4% - Fine and Performing Arts
    14% - 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 City Academy says:

  • The majority of our graduates go on to study at some of the top universities in Canada. However, each year, a number of students attend universities in the US or overseas. Some of these include Cornell, SAIC, Stanford, Emerson College, FIT, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Royal Conservatory of Music (London), Rimon School of Music (Israel), Berklee College of Music, School of Oriental and Asian Studies (London), University of Southern California, University of Hawaii, Vanderbilt University, University of Michigan, University of Tennessee, Clarkson University.
• 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.

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  Alumni Highlights

  • City Academy has graduated a number of individuals who have excelled in athletic and artistic endeavours: hockey, baseball, figure skating, equestrian show jumping, tennis, snowboarding, skiing, modelling, acting (stage and television), concert pianist, animation.
  • Since 1999 City Academy has graduated approximately 2500 students, many more if we added those students who were graduates when they came to our school. In our estimation, all of these students are " noteworthy"!
  • As in many composite schools, many of our graduates have gone on to careers in law, business, architecture and medicine.
• Principal's Message
  Sheila Dever, Principal

  B.A., M.Ed.

  The philosophy of the school is derived from my 35 years as an educator, consultant and administrator in the public school system, enhanced by my work with the Ministry of Education as an Education Officer and as a Supervisory Officer and instructor of teachers and future administrators in the Education faculty at York University.

  It is clear that all students can learn however many need a specific kind of environment to maximize their academic potential.

  At City Academy we stress academic focus. The social distractions of larger schools are not available, the ability to “hide” in a large class is impossible (our classes are approximately 6 to 8 students or less), the propensity of being overwhelmed with many different tasks does not happen (students take two subjects at a time), the excuse of being “bored” and not able to remember is radically reduced. The most important factor in student success is that students have recognized the need for a change and have embraced it. In every class the skills needed for future success are taught. The structure of the school enables all students (grades 9 to 12) to long-range plan, practice self-discipline, and feel in control of their time and their workload.

  
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