Little Owl Private School

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional
    • Mathematics: Equal Balance
    • Early Reading: Balanced Literacy
    • Writing: Equal balance
    • Science: Expository
    • Literature: Traditional
    • Social Studies : Expanding Communities
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages: Equal Balance
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Light integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Academic
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Supportive
  • Developmental priorities: Balanced
  • Special needs support: No support
  • Gifted learner support: Dedicated gifted school
  • 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 Little Owl: Traditional

    Little Owl 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 - 44%
      Liberal arts - 17%
      Progressive - 27%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    What Little Owl says: We use discovery based learning activities, sensory manipulatives, and developmental centres to fully engage your child in their lessons. We assess your child's understanding and gently challenge them to continue their next developmental phase. We teach traditional academic subjects with an emphasis on supplemental activities and elements such as dance, drama and music to give our children a richer and fuller experience during their education.

    Approach:

    Focus	Special needs
    Academic	Gifted

    
    

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    
    

    • Mathematics Equal Balance
      Mathematics approach at Little Owl: Equal Balance

      Little Owl has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math , Discovery Math approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 68%
        Traditional math - 29%
        Discovery math - 3%
      

      What Little Owl says: Little Owl uses the Ontario curriculum as our main guide to teach mathematics, with in-class activities to emphasize the topics learned.. Younger children learn through more hands-on activities, and as they age, we us a more abstract teaching approach. The Mathematics program focuses on developing our students' numeration, algebra, measurement, geometry, data management and probability skills. We place emphasis on cognitive development through problem-solving, logic, experimental learning, inventive strategies, mental math, technical vocabulary, higher order thinking and applying real life application.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: Text books include Nelson Mathematics and Carson Dellosa Weekly Practice.

      Calculator policy: Calculators are incorporated into our math program beginning in grade 7.

    • Early Reading Balanced Literacy
      Early Reading approach at Little Owl: Balanced Literacy

      Little Owl has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive , Whole Language approach).

      [Show: About Balanced Literacy?]

      Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

        Balanced literacy - 56%
        Phonics-intensive - 42%
        Whole language - 2%
      

      What Little Owl says: Our students begin with a phonics-intensive program and as they become more comfortable and fluent with the language, they are able to move onto a whole language program. Learning to read is a gradual process and students will always find new words that they learn through both methods. We feel that both phonics-based learning and context clues are equally instrumental in the early reading process.

      DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.

      What Little Owl says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Equal balance
      Writing approach at Little Owl: Equal balance

      Little Owl has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach , Process approach approach).

      [Show: About Equal balance?]

      Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 82%
        Systematic approach - 10%
        Process approach - 8%
      

      What Little Owl says: Our students start intially by learning specific grammar rules such as proper sentence structure and punctuation and writing methodologies, and as they become more familiar with writing, they are able to express themselves more personally in writing. Throughout the learning process, students will not only write sentences and stories, but focus on aspects such as word choice to convey mood or a specific idea and the place of writing in mediums beyond paragraph-based stories.

    • Science Expository
      Science approach at Little Owl: Expository

      Little Owl 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 - 22%
        Equal balance - 73%
      

      Teaching approach: Students gain foundational Science facts using a balance of inquiry and balanced instruction practices. Students read and learn from a diverse selection of school materials, textbooks, books, videos and inquiry. Besides this, we offer a variety of interesting collaborative learning opportunities through experiments and interesting research projects. Students use hands-on experiments to observe and test science facts in a fun and engaging way. For example, In Living Things, we chart and observe seed to plant growth and in Seasonal and Earth changes, we build and compare animal homes based on the habitat, time of year and other environmental conditions. In activities like these, we integrate the creative and scientific inquiry process.

      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 Traditional
      Literature approach at Little Owl: Traditional

      Little Owl has a Traditional approach to Literature (as opposed to Social Justice , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Traditional?]

      In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.

      Literature at schools on OurKids.net

        Traditional - 20%
        Social justice - 3%
        Equal balance - 77%
      

      What Little Owl says: Children in English class learn to analyze texts and create their own. Literature is handled primarily as a learning tool for our younger children, but older ones begin to decode the mechanics plot, characterization and themes in basic texts.

    • Social Studies Expanding Communities
      Social Studies approach at Little Owl: Expanding Communities

      Little Owl has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Expanding Communities?]

      The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Expanding communities - 25%
        Core knowledge - 43%
        Thematic - 32%
      

      What Little Owl says: Students begin their studies by focusing on themselves and their own lives, then by gradually expanding the scope of their studies to their local communities and finally, the globe. They study both local and foreign culture and history through readings and exercises designed to develop in them an appreciation of the complexities of the different people and cultures world and to analyze how they might connect those aspects to their daily lives.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Little Owl: Equal Balance

      Little Owl has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism , Pragmatism approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.

      Humanities and Social Sciences at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 85%
        Perennialism - 6%
        Pragmatism - 9%
      

      What Little Owl says: Please check the website for further information

    • Foreign Languages Equal Balance
      Foreign Languages approach at Little Owl: Equal Balance

      Little Owl 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 Little Owl says: Our French program places emphasis on proper pronunciation and the complexities of the language as compared to English. We encourage students to continue their learning outside the classroom to practice their structured learning in a real-world context. We believe that emphasizing proper pronunciation and rules allows students to experience the richness of the language outside the classroom without feeling self-conscious about their inexperience while also allowing them to discover the language at their own pace. Children learn Spanish through music, books and hands-on activities with new themes every week and a weekly "take me home" letter to practice vocabulary with the family at home. We also expose children to Spanish culture through art projects and short performances.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at Little Owl: Creative

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

      [Show: About Creative?]

      Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.

      Fine Arts at schools on OurKids.net

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

      Program offers:

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

      Visual studio philosophy:

      Expressive
      Disciplined

      What Little Owl says: We believe that the creative theatrical process is as important as the final result. As such, students are taught not only how to perform but how to create their performance from early brainstorming to script-writing and improvisation. Students learn that elements of theatre can be applied to their lives beyond the classroom and that there is place for both discipline and freedom at the same time. Our objective is to encourage students to explore their artistic potential. Through the fine arts program students are introduced to various mediums, application styles and art history. Our goal is to create non-judgmental environment where students feel confident and comfortable expressing themselves through their art.

    • Computers and Technology Light integration
      Computers and Technology approach at Little Owl: Light integration

      Little Owl has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration , Medium integration approach).

      [Show: About Light integration?]

      Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Light integration - 18%
        Heavy integration - 33%
        Medium integration - 49%
      

      What Little Owl says: We believe that computers are a useful supplementary tool for lessons. The internet allows for access to a vast range of teaching materials and media. That said, the focus of our students' lessons is on the direct teacher-student relationship. When the student and teacher interact, with the ability to communicate with each other immediately, we believe that the teacher is able to gauge and provide the necessary guidance to the student without the need for any technology. The integration of technology in the children's lives happens all around them outside the school. There is still a place for interpersonal interaction in their lives at Little Owl.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What Little Owl says: We have a recess for every class as well as Yoga, Ballet and Martial Arts programs. Children are encouraged to participate and take part in at least 45 minutes a day of physical activity.

    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at Little Owl: Not Ontario curriculum

      Little Owl 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:

      Little Owl 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.

      Little Owl's approach to sex-ed: This information is not currently available.

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Sex and health education
  • Preschool/K Curriculum Academic
    [Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]

    Preschools and kindergartens tend to have a particular curriculum or curricular approach. This refers to what is taught and how it's taught. Most preschools have a curriculum that comprises a blend of best practices drawn from multiple curriculum types. A preschool's curriculum may or may not, though, reflect its higher-level curriculum (if it's part of a school with elementary or secondary programs)

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    Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Little Owl: Academic

    Little Owl has an Academic approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia approach).

    [Show: About Academic?]

    Academic-based preschools and Kindergartens are the most structured of the different types, and have a strong emphasis on math and reading readiness skills. These programs aim to expose children to what early-elementary school is like. While time is still allotted to free play, much of the day is built around explicit lessons guided by the teacher. Classrooms often resemble play-based ones (with different stations set up around the room), but at an Academic program the teacher leads students through the stations directly, and ties these activities to a whole-class lesson or theme.

    Preschool/K Curriculum at schools on OurKids.net

      Academic - 44%
      Play-based - 22%
      Montessori - 26%
      Waldorf - 2%
      Reggio emilia - 6%
    

    What Little Owl says: At Little Owl students are taught English and French. Play is an important aspect in the development of young minds. Our curriculum allows for a balance between focussed academic efforts and the natural need for free expression. In the areas of Math and Science, we focus on cognitive development through problem-solving as well as promoting an understanding of how nature and science interact with our daily lives. Students also develop their creativity and imagination with our Ballet, Drama & Art classes.

  • 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 Little Owl: Standard-enriched

    Little Owl 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 Little Owl says: Little Owl offers a well rounded academic program with a focus on the Ontario Curriculum, but also gives students the opportunity to explore their creativity, interests and originality. Students are given the attention they require, with small class sizes and individual care, to achieve success in their academic endeavors.

    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 Little Owl says about flexible pacing: This information is not currently available.

  • Academic Culture Supportive
    [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 Little Owl: Supportive

    Little Owl has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).

    [Show: About Supportive?]

    A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Supportive - 49%
      Rigorous - 51%
    

    What Little Owl says: We provide structure for children to follow with opportunities for them to explore and instill in them a love of learning. Our students follow the Ontario curriculum as well as the Little Owl curriculum of enriched arts. We support children's love of learning and curiosity about the world. We seek to help guide them along their academic journey both creatively and academically.

  • Developmental priorities Balanced
    [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: 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 Little Owl says: We aim to shape our students into well-rounded, healthy individuals with strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Children can become de-individualized in certain teaching methods and we aim to support each students individuality and self-expression. It is important for children to have a strong sense of self and by helping them hone their intellectual and emotional selves, we help them become confident and talented people with a drive to succeed and create success for themselves, both personally and in the world outside the classroom.

  • Special needs support No 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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    Little Owl offers No support

    Little Owl offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.

    What Little Owl says about their special need support: This information is not currently available.

    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: This information is not currently available.

    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 Dedicated gifted school
    [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: Enrichment (The main focus is on enrichment. This means that while students may work at a marginally quicker pace than public school peers, the primary aim is to study subject in broader and deeper ways.)

    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 Little Owl says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    Little Owl offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English, French, Spanish, Mandarin
  • 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. 8, Little Owl students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

    	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
    Little Owl	0 mins	15 mins	15 mins	30 mins	30 mins	30 mins	45 mins	45 mins	45 mins	60 mins	60 mins
    Site Average	2 mins	6 mins	7 mins	15 mins	17 mins	23 mins	30 mins	35 mins	40 mins	53 mins	57 mins

    This school frequently "flips the classroom": asks students to learn material at home and do the "homework" in-class (with teacher support).

    What Little Owl says about their flipped classroom policy: Little Owl offers a homework club at school that is supervised by their academic teacher. In some cases we create assignments where students have to research information on

  • 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	JK to Gr. 6
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	JK to Gr. 6
    Academic achievement reporting	JK to Gr. 6
    Parent-teacher meetings	JK to Gr. 6

• 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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  Sports offered

  Competitive sports: N/A
  Recreational sports: 1

  Legend:     Competitive offered           Recreational offered

  all sports]

  • Archery
  • Curling
  • Badminton
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Canoeing/Kayaking
  • Cricket
  • Cross-country skiing
  • Cycling
  • Downhill skiing
  • Equestrian
  • Fencing
  • Field Hockey
  • Figure Skating
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics
  • Ice Hockey
  • Ice Skating
  • Lacrosse
  • Martial Arts
  • Mountain biking
  • Racquet Ball
  • Rowing
  • Rugby
  • Running
  • Sailing
  • Skateboarding
  • Snowboarding
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Squash
  • Swimming
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Volleyball
  • Weightlifting
  • Wrestling

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  Clubs offered

  Little Owl Private School offers 10 clubs and extracurricular programs.

  Legend:     Clubs offered           Clubs not offered

  all clubs and programs]

    Foreign Language Club

    Habitat for Humanity

    Jazz Ensemble

    Math Club

    Musical theatre/Opera

    Ballet and Classical Ballet

    Online Magazine

    Outdoor Club

    Outdoor Education

    Paintball

    Photography

    Poetry/Literature club

    Radio club

    Robotics club

    Round Square

    School newspaper

    Science Club

    Scouting

    Student Council

    Yearbook

    Yoga

    Animation

    Art Club

    Astronomy Club

    Audiovisual Club

    Band

    Chess Club

    Choir

    Community Service

    Computer Club

    Dance Club

    Debate Club

    Drama Club

    Environmental Club

  
  
• 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

   

  	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day	$15,850

  
  

  What Little Owl says about their tuition: We offer a tuition payment program. Please call for more details.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	10%
  3rd child (sibling)	all students	15%
  4th child (sibling)	all students	15%

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  Need-based financial aid

  Little Owl Private School does not offer need-based financial aid.

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  Merit based Scholarships

  • Little Owl Middle School ScholarshipAcademic
    Amount: $1,200

    Deadline: 06/28/2017

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    Eligibility Details: Students grade 6 to 8—

    This annual Scholarship is offered to new and existing students entering middle school.  Please call for more details on how to apply.

    ---

    Application Details:

    Existing students are eligible to re-apply for each new academic year.

    
    
• 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.

  ---

  Enrolment Details:

  	Grades	Gender	Living Arrangement	Enrolment
  Group 1	Preschool to Gr. 8	Coed	Day	75

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	75
  Average class size	5 to 12
  % of international students (total enrolment)	2%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	3

  Student Distribution:

  	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Enrollment	5	10	15	10	8	7	5	5	N/A	N/A	N/A
  Class Size	5	10	15	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10

• 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		PS - 6
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: N/A

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  Fees:

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

  What Little Owl says:

  Documents required: proof of date of birth (passport or birth certificate); report card from previous school; application form; admission fee.

  ---

  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	PS	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	5 (100%)	8 - 10 (100%)	8 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)	9 - 10 (100%)

  Type of student Little Owl is looking for:
  We believe that every child can be smart, enthusiastic and curious and every child is welcome at Little Owl.
• 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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  Alumnus	Grad Year	Accomplishment
  Jeremy Zotov	2014	Jeremy is a multi-talented artist, with a particular proficiency for dance. He currently studies at the Russian Ballet Academy and performs for hundreds every year.

• Principal's Message
  Natalia Galinskaya, Principal

  At Little Owl Preschool Elementary, we Teach Your Children Well.
  That means we use discovery-based learning methods and universally designed lessons. We also love to celebrate your child, our holidays, and the outside world. We go on fieldtrips, and we invite special guests and performers to engage and delight. A rounded developmental experience full of learning and inquiry is gained. Character development and education are key at Little Owl Preschool Elementary. We foster the development of confident, happy, and loving individuals. Our commitment to your child is reflected in our core values as our SPIRIT.

  Support: With our support your child will develop confidence, self worth, and self-esteem.

  Passion: We are passionate about your child succeeding in all their endeavours, present and future.

  Integrity: Everything at Little Owl Preschool Elementary is done with integrity and honesty, so as to lead by example.

  Respect: We respect your child’s feelings without judgment or criticism.

  Imagination: Innovation and creativity are encouraged in every activity your child undertakes.

  Trust: We assist your child in developing confidence and trust for self and others.

  I thank you for choosing Little Owl Preschool Elementary.

  Natasha Galinskaya
  Principal
  Little Owl Preschool Elementary
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