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Kendellhurst Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Insider community voices
Hear directly from Kendellhurst Academy community as they share insights into the Academics.
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Traditional
Kendellhurst Academy has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What Kendellhurst Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Kendellhurst Academy takes a whole child approach to education. We additionally have a structured and academic curriculum with traditional components such as weekly quizzes and unit testing. We have French lessons daily with a balance of conversational French and traditional writing, presentations, reading and grammar. We offer an enriched, well-rounded curriculum with weekly arts (music, drama and visual) and hands-on projects that delve deeper into curriculum strands. Our seamless technology program prepares students for the broader world by incorporating Digital Interactive Displays, chrome books for Grades 5-8, Mac computers, laptops and ipads as a part of the weekly curriculum.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Gifted |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Our math program incorporates a strong sense of traditional math skills, such as times tables, division, etc. However, we also include a broader math program with problem solving, group problem solving and more challenging math for students who are excel at this subject. We also incorporate technology such as IPads, computers and chromebooks to further our math program.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Phonics-intensive
Kendellhurst Academy has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst uses formal phonics and reading programs to enhance our curriculum.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Kendellhurst Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Equal balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst uses formal printing, cursive and grammar programs. Our language arts program is structured with workbooks sent home weekly, weekly spelling quizzes and one book report per term. Our program is consistent and builds from grade-to-grade.
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Science
Science approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Kendellhurst takes a hands-on approach to science with unit experiments. We have an on-staff science teacher for the upper grades.
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 Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
With character education at the heart of our school pedagogy, we offer an inquiry-based curriculum that hones students' critically thinking and leadership skills. Though we have classical novel study and grammar studies, we also have cross-curricular social justice education in mind, cultivating global citizenship values throughout our curriculum and school culture. We nurture leaders and thinkers at Kendellhurst!
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 Kendellhurst Academy: Core Knowledge
Kendellhurst Academy has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Core Knowledge?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst follows the Ontario curriculum strands. We delve deeper into subject matter through research, hands-on projects and presentations at each grade level.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst follows the Ontario curriculum strands. We delve deeper into subject matter through research, hands-on projects and presentations at each grade level.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst offers daily French language lessons with a focus on vocabulary building, grammar, reading and writing. Our program also has a conversational focus.
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 Kendellhurst Academy: Equal Balance
Kendellhurst Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Kendellhurst Academy says:
As a well-rounded school environment, Kendellhurst has a strong arts program. SK to grade 3 students have recorder lessons bi-weekly while students in grades 4 and up may choose guitar, piano or flute. Kendellhurst offers a strong visual arts program with 3 curriculum driven field trips to the AGO, ROM, TSO or YPT! We offer hip hop dance on a monthly basis too! Our students prepare a winter and end-of-year production in French or English (language dependent on the year).
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Heavy integration
Kendellhurst Academy has a Heavy integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Light integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Heavy integration?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
All classrooms have 80 inch digital interactive displays allowing a complete and seamless teaching and learning environment in the evolving digital world. Computers (both Mac and PC) are available to every classroom from preschool to grade 8. Preschool and kindergarten focus on basic usage including phonics games, basic typing and respecting the computer. Grades 1 through 4 have light usage in class with typing tutorials and basic understanding of some programs and apps. Lessons are bi-weekly. Grades 5 to 8 use computers almost daily to assist in research, reports, presenting, printing and typing. Students in grades 5 to 8 also have personal Chromebook using the EDWIN program from Nelson Education.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Physical education and staying active are vital to all students. We encourage various team and individual sports, including soccer, floor hockey, basketball, running, track and field, baseball and much more. Kendellhurst has four school house leagues that incorporate all age groups for internal school games and events. We offer monthly rotating classes of yoga, Zumba, box fit and hip hop dance through experienced and specialized instructors. These programs are included in our tuition.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Not Ontario curriculum
Kendellhurst Academy 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:
Kendellhurst Academy has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Kendellhurst Academy says:
Kendellhurst believes a family\'s rights and values are a priority and any controversial topics are addressed prior to teaching with parents. Accommodations are made to fit individual family needs. Our curriculum focusses on health and wellness.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Academic
Kendellhurst Academy has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Academic?]
What Kendellhurst Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
While Kendellhurst takes a whole child approach to education, we also have a structured and academic curriculum with traditional components such as phonics, reading, printing and lessons on mathematics, science, social studies via theme-based, fun and engaging songs and activities. We have French lessons everyday with a balance of conversational French and vocabulary building, preparing students for our grade level writing, presentations and reading programs in JK-Grade 8. We offer an enriched, well-rounded curriculum with weekly arts (music, drama and visual) and hands-on projects that delve deeper into curriculum strands. Our technology program prepares students for the broader world by incorporating educational software into the Pre-K and Kindergarten curriculums.
Language
Learn about Kendellhurst Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Kendellhurst 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 Kendellhurst Academy: Accelerated
Kendellhurst Academy has an Accelerated approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Accelerated?]
What Kendellhurst Academy says about their curriculum pace:
The majority of our students work one grade level ahead in most subjects such as math and language arts. Pod learning in each classroom allows teachers to individualize the learning needs of each student.
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 Kendellhurst Academy says about their flexible pacing:
Teachers approach each student as an individual learner and thus work with strengths and challenges to ensure student progress and growth at each grade level. Many of our students move beyond grade level - if they are able to move forward with guidance.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Kendellhurst Academy: Supportive
Kendellhurst Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Kendellhurst Academy says about their academic culture:
Kendellhurst students excel through supportive, caring and qualified faculty who excel at teaching. Kendellhurst follows the Ontario curriculum with longer class times and low student-to-teacher ratio. Our students often exceed their grade level. Ensuring students love learning and school is one of the key elements to success for us! Hands-on projects and curriculum driven field trips ignite the learning process as well!
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 Kendellhurst Academy says about their developmental priorities:
Our leadership and teaching team model the Virtues Project daily encouraging students to excel at being the best version of themselves - in all aspects of their lives. From academics to developing healthy relationships, we use the Virtues Project as a means to cultivate good, engaged and productive school citizens.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
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 Kendellhurst Academy says:
We suggest parents first visit our school with their child for an initial tour to assess whether the academic climate is appropriate for their child. We then offer a one day visit for us to assess each student's needs and how/if we can accommodate any special needs.
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 and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
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 Kendellhurst Academy says about their gifted learner support:
We offer a challenging and engaging curriculum which leads to Grade 9 Reach Ahead Credits for learners who qualify for this program. We also offer a strong technology program allowing students to customize curriculum with their teachers in grades 5 to 8.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, Kendellhurst Academy students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.
| PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kendellhurst Academy | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins | 30 mins | 45 mins | 45 mins | 60 mins | 60 mins |
| Site Average | 1 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What Kendellhurst 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 | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Academic achievement reporting | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Habits and behaviour reporting | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 8 |
