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BSA has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
At Bright Start Academy, our curriculum is built upon the evidence-based principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and utilizes Discrete Trial Training (DTT). This structured, data-driven approach allows us to break down learning into clear, manageable steps, providing targeted instruction and positive reinforcement to help students master essential skills. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to be effective in both personalized one-to-one settings and collaborative group environments. This flexibility ensures that we can address the specific learning needs of each elementary and secondary student while also fostering social interaction and group participation. By integrating ABA and DTT methodologies, we create a focused yet adaptable learning path aimed at fostering academic independence and success for students facing learning challenges.
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
BSA has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
At Bright Start Academy, our mathematics program aligns with the comprehensive standards of the Ontario Curriculum. To further support diverse learning needs and make abstract concepts tangible, we enhance our instruction with TouchMath. This multisensory program utilizes tactile and visual cues, providing an accessible, hands-on way for students to grasp mathematical ideas. We believe in a personalized approach to learning math. Students work through the curriculum at their own individual pace, focusing on practicing skills until they achieve mastery. This ensures a deep understanding and builds a strong, confident foundation in mathematics before progressing to more complex topics, allowing every student to succeed.
Touch Math, Saxon Math
This information is not currently available.
BSA has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
Our reading program uses a comprehensive, individualized approach to help all students become successful readers. We incorporate evidence-based strategies including the Edmark Reading Program for sight word recognition, Kaufman techniques to support language development, and principles from the Science of Reading to build strong phonemic awareness and decoding skills. By combining these methods, we address diverse learning needs and ensure students develop the foundational skills necessary for reading success. Our goal is to create confident, independent readers through consistent, structured, and engaging instruction.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
This information is not currently available.
BSA has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach, Equal balance approach).
This information is not currently available.
BSA has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
Currently grade 1 to grade 10 is based on the Ontario Curriculum expectations
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Evolution as consensus theory | |
| Evolution as one of many equally viable theories | |
| Evolution is not taught |
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Biology | |
| Chemistry | |
| Ecology | |
| Geology | |
| Meteorology | |
| Physics | |
| Physiology | |
| Zoology |
BSA has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
This information is not currently available.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Canadian lit | |
| American lit | |
| European (continental) lit | |
| World (non-Western) lit | |
| English lit | |
| Ancient lit |
BSA has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
Social Studies for our students are taught at Grade Level with the necessary accommodations required.
BSA has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
This information is not currently available.
This information is not currently available.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Chinese-Cantonese | |
| Chinese-Mandarin | |
| French | |
| German | |
| Greek | |
| Italian | |
| Japanese | |
| Hebrew | |
| Latin | |
| Russian | |
| Spanish | |
| ESL |
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Acting | |
| Dance | |
| Drama/Theatre | |
| Graphic Design | |
| Music | |
| Visual Arts |
This information is not currently available.
BSA has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
Our students enjoy learning how to use computers on a daily basis. Our students are taught how to navigate computers and use programs that include word and excel.
| Subject | Offered |
|---|---|
| Computer science | |
| Robotics | |
| Web design |
We teach our students the fundamentals of physical education with emphasis on group participation and skill development.
This information is not currently available.
BSA has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
Welcome to Kindergarten at Bright Start Academy! Our unique curriculum combines the evidence-based structure of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with the joy and exploration of play-based learning. This engaging approach allows us to teach essential foundational skills in a fun, motivating, and natural way. We focus on developing early literacy, numeracy, communication, and social skills crucial for school readiness. Learning activities are designed to be effective for both individual instruction, addressing specific needs, and dynamic group settings, encouraging collaboration and interaction. Our goal is to foster a love for learning while building a strong foundation for future academic success.
Learn about Bright Start Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
BSA has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
Each student has individual program plans that are followed daily.
| 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 |
This information is not currently available.
BSA has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
This information is not currently available.
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
This information is not currently available.
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
At our school, we are committed to treating all students with respect and equity, recognizing and valuing their unique strengths and challenges. We provide individualized support tailored to each student's needs—offering hands-on guidance when necessary and gradually reducing assistance to foster independence. This approach aligns with the principles of scaffolding, where support is adjusted based on the learner's progress, promoting confidence and self-reliance . Our goal is to empower every student to develop essential skills and achieve their full potential in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
We welcome enrolment for students with special needs and encourage parents of children who struggle in traditional school settings to explore our program. With individualized curriculum and programming, we tailor instruction to each child’s unique learning profile. Our supportive environment, experienced staff, and evidence-based strategies ensure that every student receives the tools and attention they need to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
This information is not currently available.
In grade Gr. 12, BSA students perform an average of 45 mins of homework per night.
| PS | K | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BSA | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins | 75 mins | 84 mins | 100 mins | 107 mins |
This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).
Our flipped classroom approach provides daily guidance and support for students who need it, ensuring they can engage with learning materials effectively both in and out of the classroom.
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Academic achievement reporting | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
OUR KIDS REPORT: Bright Start Academy