Indirect Support:
Foothills Academy ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Foothills Academy: Traditional
Foothills Academy has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Foothills Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Foothills Academy is an independent school for students with diagnosed Learning Disabilities in grades 3 - 12. Small class sizes allow the experienced staff to create a positive learning environment that builds on the strengths and unique learning styles of each student while supporting their social and emotional needs.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Foothills Academy: Traditional Math
Foothills Academy has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Traditional Math?]What Foothills Academy says:
We never take for granted pre-rerequisite skills. Our staff constantly review pre-requisites before they move on to new concepts while following all requirements set out by Alberta Education.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Grade 3 - 9 we use Nelson Grade 10 - 12 we use different publishers for each academic stream
Calculator policy:
Our goal is to minimize the reliance on a calculator but calculators are provided as an accommodation on an individual basis depending on need.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Foothills Academy: Balanced Literacy
Foothills Academy has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Foothills Academy says:
We use a variety of resources to help students develop phonemic awareness, improve reading fluency and comprehension.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Foothills Academy says:
We do pre and post-testing throughout the year and standardized assessments.
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Writing
Writing approach at Foothills Academy: Equal balance
Foothills Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Foothills Academy says:
We provide a balance between structured approaches to narrative and expository writing but recognize the value of prose and encourage creative expression through various forms of media.
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Science
Science approach at Foothills Academy: Equal Balance
Foothills Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
We approach teaching science in a traditional method because our students benefit from explicit instruction. Extra instructional time provides opportunities for inquiry based activities that reinforce concepts learned and increase a personal connection to the topic.
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
Literature approach at Foothills Academy: Equal Balance
Foothills Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Foothills Academy says:
In the younger grades, a more traditional approach is used. At the junior and senior high levels, traditional and social justice approaches are amalgamated.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at Foothills Academy: Expanding Communities
Foothills Academy has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What Foothills Academy says:
We follow Alberta Education curriculum that is based on Expanding Communities. Also, because of our specific population, we also address issues focused on developing active citizenship and fostering advocacy.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Foothills Academy: Equal Balance
Foothills Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Foothills Academy says:
We use a balanced approach to help students to personally connect to global and historical issues.
Foreign Languages
What Foothills Academy 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
Fine Arts approach at Foothills Academy: Creative
Foothills Academy has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Foothills Academy says:
We follow the Alberta Education curriculum of studies. Fine arts are seem as an important component of developing the whole child. We emphasize the development of personal strengths and help students recognize their areas of passion. A wide variety of fine arts activities are provided as extracurricular activities in addition to classes.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Foothills Academy: Medium integration
Foothills Academy has a Medium integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Heavy integration approach).
[Show: About Medium integration?]What Foothills Academy says:
Technology is embedded throughout the school program. Our school uses Google Apps for Education and every student has access to a personal device (Chromebook, iPad or laptop depending on grade). We have an Assistive Technology Specialist provides support for students' specific needs.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Foothills Academy says:
Our physical education program is based on personal levels of success and promoting healthy, active lifestyle choices. We have lots of opportunities for students to get involved in a variety of intramural and extra-curricular activities.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Foothills Academy: Alberta curriculum
Foothills Academy has an Alberta curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About Alberta curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Foothills Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Foothills Academy says:
We teach all the required programs of studies which include health (gr. 3 - 9) and CALM 20. Within each program, there is a sexual education component.
Language
Learn about Foothills Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Foothills Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Foothills Academy: Standard-enriched
Foothills Academy has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Foothills Academy says about their curriculum pace:
This information is not currently available.
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 Foothills Academy says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Foothills Academy: Supportive
Foothills Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Foothills Academy says about their academic culture:
Many students who come to us have experienced feelings of failure and not fitting it in their current schools. We need to make students feel valued for who they are - individual strengths and challenges. When students feel safe and cared for, they are more willing to engage with learning again. All our staff and administration work together for the same goals for our students. Students are surrounded by staff throughout the school who truly care about them. Being a school of under 300 students allows strong relationships to form and students cannot go unnoticed and slip through the cracks.
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: Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
What Foothills Academy says about their developmental priorities:
Foothills Academy Society believes in the rights, abilities, and the unique strengths of each individual with Learning Disabilities and associated disorders. Across our School Program, the goal of Self-Determination is at the forefront. The three pillars of Self-Determination theory (relatedness; competence; and autonomy) are interwoven throughout all our efforts and provide direction for our work. It is summed up in our slogan: Find Understanding, Build Confidence, Maximize Potential
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Foothills Academy is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What Foothills Academy says about their special need support:
In addition to the expert teaching staff we have in the classrooms, students have access to extra supports to enhance and maximize their learning potential. Educational Assistants, Assistive Technology and IPPs are available to and benefit all students. For those who require more, specialized support, we have additional Assistive Technology, Psychologists and Occupational Therapy and Speech-Language Therapy.
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 Foothills Academy says:
All students are diagnosed with a Learning Disability before they are able to attend Foothills Academy.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
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 Foothills Academy says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 12, Foothills Academy students perform an average of 1.5 hours of homework per night.
| 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foothills Academy | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins | 90 mins |
| Site Average | 24 mins | 30 mins | 36 mins | 42 mins | 54 mins | 58 mins | 75 mins | 86 mins | 102 mins | 109 mins |
What Foothills Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 3 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Gr. 3 to Gr. 12 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Gr. 3 to Gr. 12 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Gr. 3 to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Gr. 3 to Gr. 12 |
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
Foothills Academy offers 6 competitive sports and 7 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Golf
- Running
- Soccer
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
Clubs offered
Foothills Academy offers 5 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Animation
Art Club
Astronomy Club
Community Service
Environmental Club
What Foothills Academy says about their extracurricular activities:
- Staff recognize that a single club or event can have a marked impact on helping to foster new relationships and identify student strengths and passions that offer future career pursuits. Despite our modest class sizes and school population, we provide a variety of in school and after-school extracurricular programming covering a variety of interests. Another benefit of our students engaging with extracurricular activities is that they provide a deliberate academic break our students need. All the activities offered have originated because of an expressed student interest. If students are interested in starting a club that isn’t already offered, getting it started it is as easy as approaching their homeroom teacher with their idea. They will work together to determine a time that works for the student, assist with spreading the word and locate a staff member who is committed to supervising the activity.
