Indirect Support:
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Summary
- Curriculum
Liberal Arts, Montessori - Preschool/K Curriculum
Montessori - Montessori Approach
Moderately non-orthodox - Language
trilingual - Curriculum Pace
Accelerated - Academic Culture
Rigorous - Developmental priorities
Balanced - Special needs support
No support - Gifted learner support
Dedicated class; in-class adaptations - Extracurriculars
Available
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at CMPS: Liberal Arts, Montessori
CMPS has a Liberal Arts, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Liberal Arts, Montessori?]
CMPS has a Montessori approach to supplementary curriculum.
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.
International curriculum & programs at CMPS: British National Curriculum
What CMPS says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Cornerstone applies an eclectic approach to designing its curriculum in order to develop a blend of the liberal arts, traditional and Montessori principles. As our intent is to provide a holistic approach to nurturing the intellect, social, emotional, physical, spiritual and psychological development of our students, we feel that a combination of select elements from these various philosophies, enables us to maximize the learning experience at Cornerstone.
Montessori program(s) 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.
Read our detailed guide to learn all about Christian education.
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
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
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Humanities and Social Sciences
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Religious Education
What CMPS says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at CMPS: Not Ontario curriculum
CMPS has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
CMPS has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).[Show: About Fairly value-based?]CMPS has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).[Show: About Traditional?]What CMPS says:
We do not teach sex education at the school but rather work with the parents to provide support for them while they educate their children on this topic at home.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at CMPS: Montessori
CMPS has a Montessori approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Montessori?]
What CMPS says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
Our kindergarten programme at Cornerstone is a blend of the traditional and liberal arts approach that integrates aspects of the Montessori philosophy to provide child based inquiry learning, multi aged groupings and a systematic and logical progressive way of learning so that the child is educated holistically by addressing the academic, emotional, physical, spiritual, psychological and social levels of his/her development. it is very much a balanced approach.
Montessori Approach
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
| Primary | Lower Elementary | Upper Elementary | Middle | High | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age groupings How children are grouped by age for each class.' |
5 to 7 | 6 to 8 | 7 to 9 | 8 to 13 | 14 to 18 |
| Uninterrupted work periods The longest uninterrupted work period for each class.' |
.75 hours | .75 hours | 1 hours | 1 hours | 1.5 hours |
| Tests and assignments How often students are given tests or assignments in each class.' |
Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Graded work How often students have their work graded in each class.' |
Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) | Regularly (Non-Orthodox) |
| Arts and crafts The percentage of a typical student's day that is spent on arts and crafts in each class.' |
20% | 20% | 10% | 10% | 5% |
Overall approach
Moderately Orthodox
40% of schools
Schools that adhere to the original Montessori program and principles. On occasion, though, they supplement it with modern curricular approaches or materials.
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
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Special education
Orthodox
External special education support isn't necessary. Core teachers can deal with all special education needs, by offering the relevant support for each student.
Moderately orthodox
External special education support is only rarely necessary. For instance, a psychologist might be brought in to help out a student with a severe developmental disorder.
Moderately non-orthodox
External special education support is quite important. Outside specialists are needed for a fairly wide range of special needs, such as developmental and learning disabilities.
Non-orthodox
External special education support is very important. Outside specialists are regularly brought in to support students with many different types of special needs, including developmental and learning disabilities, language and speech issues, behavioural issues, and advanced learning abilities.
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Specialist classes
Orthodox
We don't have any specialist teachers or classes. Core teachers are well-equipped to teach all subjects.
Moderately orthodox
We only use specialist teachers and classes in rare cases (for instance, to teach a second language). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach almost all subjects.
Moderately non-orthodox
We have a fairly wide range of specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, and art). Core teachers are well-equipped to teach most subjects.
Non-orthodox
We have many specialist teachers and classes (for instance, in languages, music, art, gym, science, and math). It's important that students receive specialized instruction in many subjects.
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Modern-day technology
Orthodox
Modern-day technology is never used in the classroom. This can interfere with students' social and emotional development and can be a distraction.
Moderately orthodox
Modern-day technology is very rarely used in class, since it can be a distraction and interfere with development. Students at the upper levels, though, might be permitted to use a computer or a tablet to do research for a specific project.
Moderately non-orthodox
Modern-day technology is used in moderation since it can be a distraction. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, and multimedia projects.
Non-orthodox
Modern technology is used fairly regularly. For instance, computers and other digital media might be used for research, writing, multimedia projects, and to learn keyboarding skills. Teachers may sometimes also use digital media, such as interactive whiteboards, to teach lessons or introduce topics.
Teaching assistants
This school doesn't use teaching assistants.
Language
Learn about Cornerstone Montessori Prep School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
CMPS is a trilingual school with English, French, Mandarin as the primary language of instruction
| English - 80% | French - 10% | Mandarin - 10% | |||||||
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at CMPS: Accelerated
CMPS has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What CMPS says about their curriculum pace:
Our overall curriculum is ahead one year of the public school system which is in collaboration with our standards set for our students. We do provide some degree of mainstream curriculum standards for those students who require this level as part of their learning experienc.e
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What CMPS says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at CMPS: Rigorous
CMPS has a Rigorous approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Supportive approach).
[Show: About Rigorous?]
What CMPS says about their academic culture:
We expect our students to perform to the best of their ability with the hopes of being inspired to go beyond their own expectations as a result of the academic stimulation in the classroom setting.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
What CMPS says about their developmental priorities:
Our goals is to develop and nurture students who will develop an attitude for life long learnng while realizing the need to foster a strong faith based foundation upon which to establish positive life skills and the ability to make wise choices throughout life.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
What CMPS says about their special need support:
We assess each need individually to see we can do to provide the support they need to be successful students. If we are unable to do so, then we do our best to help them locate the best school for their child.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (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.DyscalculiaThis 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.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis 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 DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers 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 SyndromeOn 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 syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis 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 syndromeThis 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.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled 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 DepressionThis 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 anxietyThis 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 thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis 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.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis 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 palsyhis 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 dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis 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.BlindnessVisual 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."DeafnessHearing 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 FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What CMPS says:
If we discover that a student develops learning difficulties while enrolled at Cornerstone, we will do our best to provide whatever support we can to help that student manage his/her learning challenge. We would also work with the parent so explore possible formal assessments to determine the next step and to also determine if we can continue to support the student in an effective and productive manner.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration
The main focus is on acceleration. This means that all students work at a much quicker pace than public school peers (usually working at least one grade-level ahead).
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
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 CMPS says about their gifted learner support:
We assess the learning situation on an individual basis and if requested, can provide some degree of accelerated program for a select group of students.
Extracurricular Activities
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
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School offers 6 competitive sports and 0 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Martial Arts
- Soccer
- Swimming
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Cornerstone Montessori Prep School offers 8 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Math Club
Musical theatre/Opera
Outdoor Education
Photography
Yearbook
Choir
Community Service
Debate Club
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