Mississauga Christian Academy

Deep-dive and commentary on programming

• Academics

  Academics Summary: [Hide summary]

  • Curriculum: Traditional
    • Mathematics: Traditional Math
    • Early Reading: Phonics-intensive
    • Writing: Systematic approach
    • Science: Equal Balance
    • Literature: Traditional
    • Social Studies : Core Knowledge
    • Humanities and Social Sciences : Equal Balance
    • Foreign Languages: Audio-Lingual
    • Fine Arts: Creative
    • Computers and Technology: Medium integration
    • Physical Education:
    • Religious Education: More than 25% of our courses are religion courses
    • Sex and health education: Not Ontario curriculum
  • Preschool/K Curriculum: Academic
  • Curriculum Pace: Standard-enriched
  • Academic Culture: Rigorous
  • Developmental priorities: Spiritual
  • Special needs support: Partial Integration
  • Gifted learner support: In-class adaptations
  • 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.

    ---

    Curriculum approach at MCA: Traditional

    MCA 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 - 43%
      Liberal arts - 18%
      Progressive - 27%
      Montessori - 10%
      Reggio Emilia - 1%
      Waldorf - 1%
    

    What MCA says: The MCA curriculum covers a wide range of subject areas that surpasses the standards set by the Ontario Ministry of Education. The subject areas taught by MCA's qualified teachers include: Mathematics French Music Art Physical Education Science Social Studies Language Bible Although, as professional educators it is important for us to know, understand and align to the Ontario curriculum standards in various subjects; ultimately we exist to bring glory to God. In so doing, we recognized that we have the distinct privilege to serve families and fulfill our purpose to educate students according to the revealed Word of God. Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum that contradicts the Word of God especially the new Health and Physical Education curriculum.

    Approach:

    Focus	Religious-based
    Academic	Christian (Baptist)

    If you want to learn more about faith-based education, check out our comprehensive guide.
    If you want to learn more about Christian education, check out our comprehensive guide.

    Pedagogies and subject courses:

    • Mathematics Traditional Math
      Mathematics approach at MCA: Traditional Math

      MCA has a Traditional Math approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Discovery Math , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Traditional Math?]

      Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.

      Mathematics at schools on OurKids.net

        Traditional math - 28%
        Discovery math - 3%
        Equal balance - 69%
      

      What MCA says: We use a traditional math curriculum by Purposeful Design- a publication of ACSI. The goal in the earlier years are to build a strong foundation using repetitions and drills. As they mature, they are introduced to more and more conceptual and applied understanding. The emphasis on foundation has shown results in math competitions and in Canadian Achievements Tests.

      Textbooks and supplementary materials: This information is not currently available.

      Calculator policy: This information is not currently available.

    • Early Reading Phonics-intensive
      Early Reading approach at MCA: Phonics-intensive

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

      [Show: About Phonics-intensive?]

      Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.

      Early Reading at schools on OurKids.net

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

      What MCA says: MCA uses a phonic-intensive program in the early age to teach our students the fundamentals needed to read. They have ample opportunity to read actual literature and join a reading buddy program with older students. Many students graduating from Kindergarten to grade 1 are already able to read full sentences and simple books with understanding.

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

      What MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Writing Systematic approach
      Writing approach at MCA: Systematic approach

      MCA has a Systematic approach approach to Writing (as opposed to Process approach , Equal balance approach).

      [Show: About Systematic approach?]

      The systematic approach to teaching beginner writing focuses on directly imparting explicit sentence construction strategies, along with planning, revising, and editing skills. Students are asked to learn these explicit strategies and skills and practice them before applying them in more holistic writing assignments. Grammar and parts of sentences tend to have a central role in systematic writing instruction.

      Writing at schools on OurKids.net

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

      What MCA says: Our writing program focuses on direct sentence, paragraph and essay/report construction strategies. Students are taught to plan, research, revise, and edit. Supplementary creative writing classes are also introduced to give students a chance to write about "real things" or stretch their imagination on point of view, audience, topic, and format.

    • Science Equal Balance
      Science approach at MCA: Equal Balance

      MCA has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository , Inquiry approach).

      [Show: About Equal Balance?]

      Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.

      Science at schools on OurKids.net

        Equal balance - 73%
        Expository - 5%
        Inquiry - 22%
      

      Teaching approach: Mississauga Christian Academy offers an in-depth look at many scientific studies including but not limited to Biology, Chemistry, Physics and others.

      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 MCA: Traditional

      MCA 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 MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Social Studies Core Knowledge
      Social Studies approach at MCA: Core Knowledge

      MCA has a Core Knowledge approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Expanding Communities , Thematic approach).

      [Show: About Core Knowledge?]

      Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).

      Social Studies at schools on OurKids.net

        Core knowledge - 42%
        Expanding communities - 26%
        Thematic - 32%
      

      What MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Humanities and Social Sciences Equal Balance
      Humanities and Social Sciences approach at MCA: Equal Balance

      MCA 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 MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Foreign Languages Audio-Lingual
      Foreign Languages approach at MCA: Audio-Lingual

      MCA has an Audio-Lingual approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Communicative , Equal Balance approach).

      [Show: About Audio-Lingual?]

      The audio-lingual method of teaching foreign languages emphasizes the use of repetition and a system of immediate reinforcement and feedback. The method makes particular use of oral drills where students are expected to correctly imitate (or intentionally alter) an utterance made by the teacher in the target language. Quizzes and worksheets are also used extensively.

      Foreign Languages at schools on OurKids.net

        Audio-lingual - 2%
        Communicative - 34%
        Equal balance - 64%
      

      What MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Fine Arts Creative
      Fine Arts approach at MCA: Creative

      MCA 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 MCA says: This information is not currently available.

    • Computers and Technology Medium integration
      Computers and Technology approach at MCA: Medium integration

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

      [Show: About Medium integration?]

      Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.

      Computers and Technology at schools on OurKids.net

        Medium integration - 48%
        Light integration - 18%
        Heavy integration - 34%
      

      What MCA says: This information is not currently available.

      Program covers:

      Subject	offered
      Computer science
      Robotics
      Web design

    • Physical Education

      What MCA says: MCA’s trend to align with various Ontario Ministry of Education guidelines is primarily for updating the legal aspect of policies, forms, procedures and curricular standards that we find beneficial to independent school management, operation and best practices. Although, as professional educators it is important for us to know, understand and align to the Ontario curriculum standards in various subjects; ultimately we exist to bring glory to God. In so doing, we recognized that we have the distinct privilege to serve families and fulfill our purpose to educate students according to the revealed Word of God. Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum that contradicts the Word of God especially the new Health and Physical Education curriculum.

    • Religious Education More than 25% of our courses are religion courses

      What MCA says: Children from JK to grade 8 will have regular Bible lessons on a daily basis and memory verses, and chapel on a weekly basis. Once a year, our school hosts a Spiritual Emphasis Week where speakers and worship leaders are brought in and the students have the opportunity to learn about aspects of their faith and/or God in a more intensive manner. It is our mission to employ the finest educational resources and personnel to achieve our pursuit of educational excellence and character development while faithfully sharing the gospel. Our goal at MCA is to provide quality education in a Godly and nurturing atmosphere that focuses on character and values - leadership, respect, confidence and integrity. We are committed to providing the best opportunities for your child to excel as each staff member labours collaboratively to help your child develop exceptional capabilities and a strong moral and spiritual compass.

    • Sex and health education Not Ontario curriculum
      Sex and health education approach at MCA: Not Ontario curriculum

      MCA 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: Fairly value-based

      MCA has a approach Fairly value-based (as opposed to Mostly value-neutral approach).

      [Show: About Fairly value-based?]

      Sex is sometimes taught from a particular moral or ethical standpoint. Sometimes particular values or value systems (such as social, political, or ideological values) are invoked when teaching sex and related issues .

      MCA has a approach Traditional (as opposed to Progressive approach).

      [Show: About Traditional?]

      This includes a range of positions. A traditional approach might, for example, go as far as emphasizing the nuclear family and complete abstinence from sex before marriage. Alternatively, this approach might simply involve placing less emphasis on sex outside of the context of marriage and more emphasis on abstinence. Or finally, it might just involve focusing less on sex outside of the context of marriage.

      What MCA says: Based on our strong biblical values and the fact that God has ordained parents to be the primary teacher and educator, we will not adopt the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum. In our grade one to five, we will continue to use our science and health books as our "Sex Ed" curriculum. In our grades six through eight, we plan to use the Total Health: Choices for a Wining Lifestyle by Purposeful Design Publications

    
    

    Jump to:

    • Mathematics

    • Early Reading

    • Writing

    • Science

    • Literature

    • Social Studies

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Foreign Languages

    • Fine Arts

    • Computers and Technology

    • Physical Education

    • Religious 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 MCA: Academic

    MCA 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 MCA says: MCA's Kindergarten program has a strong academic emphasis. Using the Abeka curriculum, students will learn their numbers and how to read and write at an early age to prepare them for the grades to come. Children begin learning cursive writing, learn piano through our interactive program and and also follow a Bible curriculum.

  • 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 MCA: Standard-enriched

    MCA 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 MCA says: Our curriculum is designed to meet and exceed that of the Ontario curriculum. Our grammar program is superior to the one offered in Ontario schools and our math is accelerated. We are exploring alignment to the IB program in some areas and are moving towards a project based learning style.

    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 MCA says about flexible pacing: We seek to encourage early intervention for students who have been identified as an “exceptional pupil” (students who are not meeting or exceeding curriculum expectations); and monitor student progress and achievement through an Independent Education Plan (IEP).

  • Academic Culture Rigorous
    [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 MCA: Rigorous

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

    [Show: About Rigorous?]

    A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.

    Academic Culture at schools on OurKids.net

      Rigorous - 51%
      Supportive - 49%
    

    What MCA says: Historically, what parents appreciate the most about MCA is our completely Christian worldview and our high standards in academics for the students. The culture prepares students to truly aim to be the best that they can be in their studies.

  • Developmental priorities Spiritual
    [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: Spiritual

    The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."

    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 MCA says: Although, we recognize the need to help students in all areas of development as a whole child, MCA's strength is primarily in the spiritual and intellectual development of the students. Chapel presentations, community volunteering and support is given for emotional/social development and a strong extra-curricular program allows development in all areas and a love for sports and physical training.

  • Special needs support Partial Integration
    [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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    MCA offers Partial Integration

    Students are placed in a separate special education class, but are strategically integrated into a regular classroom for certain periods.

    What MCA says about their special need support: Resource teacher(s) are available to work through IEP's with the students' homeroom teacher(s) and to have one-on-one or small group times with students who require additional support.

    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

    ---

    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 In-class adaptations
    [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: This information is not currently available.

    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 MCA says: This information is not currently available.

  • Language English
    MCA offers English as the primary language of instruction.

    Language of enrollment include: English, French, 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, MCA students perform an average of 1 hour of homework per night.

    Nightly Homework

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

    What MCA says about their flipped classroom policy: This information is not currently available.

  • 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.

    ---

    How assessments are delivered across the grades:

    Lettered or numbered grades	Gr. 1 to Gr. 8
    Prose (narrative)-based feedback	JK to Gr. 8
    Academic achievement reporting	JK to Gr. 8
    Habits and behaviour reporting	JK to Gr. 8
    Parent-teacher meetings	JK to Gr. 8

• 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: 8
  Recreational sports: 2

  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

  ---

  Clubs offered

  Mississauga Christian Academy 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”).

  ---

  Day Day (International)

   

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day	$9,055							$9,546
  Day (International)	$10,161							$10,622

  
  

  What MCA says about their tuition: The Mississauga Christian Academy tuition fees for the 2019 - 2020 school year were determined to cover the operating cost of the school. Before and/or After School Care, Hot Lunches, Pizza Day Lunches and Overnight Trips are optional.

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  Discounts

  Discount Type	Enrolment Type	Amount
  Full payment	all students	2%
  2nd child (sibling)	all students	25%
  3rd child (sibling)	all students	50%

  ---

  Need-based financial aid

  Grade range that need-based aid is offered:	JK to 8
  Percentage of grade-eligible students receiving financial aid	0%
  Average aid package size	$0
  Percentage of total enrolment on financial aid	0%
  Total aid available	$0

  Application Deadline:

  N/A

  More information:

  [email protected]

  Application Details:

  ---

  Merit based Scholarships

  • D. R. Lebold ScholarshipOther
    Amount: $0

    Deadline: Rolling

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade JK to 8 For more details, visit:[email protected]
    

  • Joy Elliot ScholarshipOther
    Amount: $0

    Deadline: Rolling

    ---

    Eligibility Details: Students grade JK to 8 For more details, visit:[email protected]
    
• 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	JK to Gr. 8	Coed	Day	160

  Additional Statistics:

  Total enrolment	160
  Average class size	14 to 18
  % of international students (total enrolment)	3%
  Number of different nationalities within student population	40

  Student Distribution:

  	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Enrollment	19	19	16	16	17	16	17	15	17	14

• 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		JK - 8
  SSAT
  SSAT (out of province)
  Entrance Exam(s)		2 - 8
  Entrance Essay

  Application Deadlines:

  Day students: Rolling
  Offer mid-year entry: Yes

  ---

  Fees:

  Application fee: N/A
  Registration fee: $275
  Deposit: N/A

  What MCA says:

   www.mississaugachristianacademy.com

  STEP 1

  Register online or pick up a package at our school!

  STEP 2

  Submit last year's report card for all terms and their most recent report card (s) for all children. (Report cards can be submitted by email, fax, or in person).

  STEP 3

  Submit a Confidential School Report/ Questionnaire (to be completed by student's homeroom teacher or principal and sent directly to MCA by mail, fax or email). This applies to students in Grades SK and up.

  STEP 4

  Book and admission testing* appointment

  *An admissions testing fee may apply.

  We require a minimum of a one week processing time from the day your enrolment documentation is submitted. Enrolment is subject to the availability of classroom space and at the sole discretion of Mississauga Christian Academy. A conditional acceptance email will be provided with additional instructions, once steps 1 though 4 have been completed.

  ---

  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
  

  ---

  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	JK	SK	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
  Day Acceptance (Acceptance rate)	10 - 12 (100%)	10 - 12 (100%)	12 - 15 (100%)	12 - 15 (100%)	12 - 15 (100%)	12 - 15 (100%)	12 - 15 (100%)	12 - 18 (100%)	12 - 18 (100%)	12 - 18 (100%)

  Type of student MCA is looking for:
  This information is not currently available.
• Principal's Message
  Daniel Jovin, Principal

  M.TS

  MCA is a remarkable school.  It is our mission to employ the finest educational resources and personnel to achieve our pursuit of educational excellence and character development while faithfully sharing the gospel.  It is our vision to partner with and support families in training their children.  Our goal at MCA is to provide quality education in a Godly and nurturing atmosphere that focuses on character and values - leadership, respect, confidence and integrity.
  
  An outstanding academic program allows our students to thrive from our early learning centres to our junior high program.  Our academics is complemented by our sports, music and arts programs.  We are committed to providing the best opportunities for your child to excel as each staff member labours collaboratively to help your child develop exceptional capabilities and a strong moral and spiritual compass.
  
  The following pages contain a snapshot of our vision and direction; but they are no subsitute for a visit.  If you would like to understand more about MCA, please schedule a tour with our admissions office.  I am confident you will like what you see.
  
  I look forward to meeting you.
   
  Sincerely,
  
  
  
  Daniel Jovin
  
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