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OakHaven Academy For Diverse Learners ACADEMICS & Curriculum
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Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at OakHaven Academy: Traditional
OakHaven Academy has a Traditional approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Traditional?]
What OakHaven Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners provides a personalized, evidence-based curriculum designed to meet the needs of neurodiverse students and those requiring additional support. Our core focus is on building strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. We use structured, research-backed programs such as UFLI, Wilson, REWARDS, and Structured Word Inquiry, along with multi-sensory math instruction to ensure deep understanding and skill development. Each student follows a customized Success Plan, developed in collaboration with families, to target individual learning goals. Our low 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio allows for meaningful relationships, individualized attention, and responsive instruction. Social-emotional learning is taught explicitly through evidence-based programs like Social Thinking and Zones of Regulation, helping students build self-awareness, communication, and self-regulation skills. Afternoon programming expands learning into science, social studies, the arts, and healthy living. Weekly community excursions provide real-world learning opportunities, fostering independence and connection beyond the classroom. OakHaven offers a calm, inclusive, and flexible environment where students who haven’t thrived in traditional schools can build confidence, close learning gaps, and rediscover the joy of learning.
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at OakHaven Academy: Equal Balance
OakHaven Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What OakHaven Academy says:
OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners programming follows the Ontario curriculum's overall expectations in mathematics focusing first on numeracy and number sense, with a primary focus of lessening any learning gaps the student demonstrates. Key topics are explored clearly and explicitly, with lessons and activities differentiated for each student's individual level. All learning in math builds upon earlier, foundational concepts. If students do not have a strong base in addition, they will struggle with subtraction. If they do not understand equal groups, they will not be able to understand multiplication and division. We help students to consolidate the foundational skills that they will need to unlock higher levels of math in secondary school and beyond.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
Multi-sensory Math Jump Math Ontario curriculum spiralized to lessen learning gaps and build foundational skills
Calculator policy:
Students are encouraged to use learning tools and manipulatives.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at OakHaven Academy: Phonics-intensive
OakHaven Academy has a Phonics-intensive approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Whole Language, Balanced Literacy approach).
[Show: About Phonics-intensive?]What OakHaven Academy says:
OakHaven's program is best described as phonics-intensive, using systematic, explicit instruction to teach students how to decode words by identifying letter-sound relationships and blending sounds. This structured, evidence-based approach is particularly effective for neurodiverse learners, who benefit from repetition, routine, and clear instruction. We recognize that many students struggle with spelling and printing, so we directly teach spelling conventions and patterns to support both accurate spelling and fluent reading. We believe that reading and spelling are deeply connected—automatic spelling strengthens word recognition and reading fluency. In addition to phonics, students receive instruction in: Cursive and print handwriting Common spelling rules and decoding strategies Paragraph writing and composition Grammar and proofreading This integrated literacy approach helps students become confident, capable readers and writers by reinforcing foundational skills across all areas of language learning.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What OakHaven Academy says:
We monitor progress using a variety of tools including Diebels and Woodcock Johnson standardized assessments.
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Writing
Writing approach at OakHaven Academy: Equal balance
OakHaven Academy has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What OakHaven Academy says:
OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners uses structured, evidence-based approaches to teach writing such as UFLI, Wilson and Rewards Reading and Writing which is particularly effective for neurodiverse learners, who benefit from repetition, routine, and clear instruction. We recognize that many students struggle with spelling and printing, so we directly teach spelling conventions and patterns to support both accurate spelling and fluent reading. We believe that reading and spelling are deeply connected—automatic spelling strengthens word recognition and reading fluency. In addition to phonics, students receive instruction in: Cursive and print handwriting Common spelling rules and decoding strategies Phrases, sentences and paragraph writing differentiated to individual students Grammar, and proofreading Learning to use assistive technology as a tool This integrated literacy approach helps students become confident, capable readers and writers by reinforcing foundational skills across all areas of language learning.
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Science
Science approach at OakHaven Academy: Equal Balance
OakHaven Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Inquiry approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Teaching approach:
Science is taught in the afternoon. Topics are generated from the Ontario curriculum and overall expectations are covered. We learn through inquiry and experimental learning, using hands-on experiments and student guided investigation. With multiple grades, we split students into smaller groups so they are learning their own curriculum expectations differentiated to their ability level. We also group together similar concepts so that students can work together across grades collaboratively.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at OakHaven Academy: Equal Balance
OakHaven Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What OakHaven Academy says:
OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners incorporate both of these approaches. It is vital for students to be able to decode and understand the purpose of a text for their reading comprehension and written composition. Many of our students struggles with written expression and our goal is to help them identify written elements and apply them to their own work. However, we want our students to feel competent and confident with literature.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at OakHaven Academy: Expanding Communities
OakHaven Academy has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What OakHaven Academy says:
Social Studies are taught in the afternoon. Topics are generated from the Ontario curriculum and overall expectations are covered. Imagine your child is motivated to learn, not just for marks, but for the love of learning. Authentic learning ignites student interest and joy in learning by connecting what is taught in the classroom to real-world issues, problems and applications. "Learn by doing" is the core of OakHaven Academy's philosophy, as students practice foundational skills, whether they are engaging in authentic activities similar to a scientist, an artist, an engineer, or a writer. Future-ready skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, teamwork, observation, asking questions, and note-taking are consistently reinforced during authentic learning.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at OakHaven Academy: Pragmatism
OakHaven Academy has a Pragmatism approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Pragmatism?]What OakHaven Academy says:
One of the best ways to help students learn to make meaningful connections to real-world experiences. This can help them to contextualize what they have learned and then apply their learning their own way.
Foreign Languages
What OakHaven Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at OakHaven Academy: Equal Balance
OakHaven Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Creative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What OakHaven Academy says:
Our students spend time exploring their abilities in the fine art of music and visual art each Friday afternoon. We frequently explore local museums including the Art Gallery of Burlington for a program.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at OakHaven Academy: Light integration
OakHaven Academy has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What OakHaven Academy says:
Computers and iPads are used as learning tools for assistive technology, inquiry and learning typing skills. We use computer games such as IXL to compliment our learning.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What OakHaven Academy says:
Physical education is taught outside in the local park setting. We have access to fields and equipment. Students walk to the park each day and enjoy our structured games. Students swim at Goldfish Swim School once a week during the last term of the school year.
Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at OakHaven Academy: Not Ontario curriculum
OakHaven Academy has a Not Ontario curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Follows provincial curriculum approach).
[Show: About Not Ontario curriculum?]What OakHaven Academy says:
We do not address sexual health education at OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at OakHaven Academy: Play-based
OakHaven Academy has a Play-based approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Montessori, Waldorf, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Play-based?]
What OakHaven Academy says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
OakHaven Academy’s Kindergarten program blends play-based learning with gentle structure to support neurodiverse learners and those needing extra support. Through meaningful, hands-on play, we build foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. With a low 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio, each child receives personalized guidance and support. Learning is intentionally designed to target goals such as language development, fine motor skills, and emotional regulation, and are adapted to meet individual needs. Social skills are taught explicitly using programs like Zones of Regulation and reinforced through modeled play. Our calm, inclusive environment promotes confidence, communication, and a positive early learning experience that nurtures curiosity and builds readiness for future academic success.
Language
Learn about OakHaven Academy For Diverse Learners's languages of instruction and enrolment.
OakHaven Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at OakHaven Academy: Student-paced
OakHaven Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What OakHaven Academy says about their curriculum pace:
At OakHaven Academy, each student follows an individualized Success Plan tailored to their learning profile. Small class sizes and ongoing assessment allow educators to adjust instruction pace, ensuring students build skills at their own speed while receiving the support and repetition they need to succeed confidently.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What OakHaven Academy says about their flexible pacing:
OakHaven Academy’s flexible pacing allows students to move forward when ready and revisit concepts as needed. Instruction is adjusted in real time based on student progress, not grade level or age. This ensures deeper understanding, reduces frustration, and supports lasting skill development across academic and social-emotional domains.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at OakHaven Academy: Supportive
OakHaven Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What OakHaven Academy says about their academic culture:
At OakHaven Academy, we nurture self-aware, confident, and capable learners by equally supporting the learner's development. A key priority is helping students understand and embrace their own neurodiversity—recognizing how they learn best, advocating for their needs, and celebrating their strengths. Through personalized instruction, social-emotional learning, and hands-on supports, students build resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. Our classrooms foster a safe, affirming environment where differences are not only accepted, but deeply valued. We maintain high expectations while meeting students where they are, helping them grow into individuals who are curious, compassionate, and empowered. Ultimately, OakHaven strives to shape learners with a strong sense of identity, purpose, and the confidence to thrive—both in school and beyond—as proud neurodiverse individuals.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Social
The goal is to cultivate "socially aware and active citizens, motivated to change the world (or their community) for the better."
What OakHaven Academy says about their developmental priorities:
At OakHaven Academy, we nurture self-aware, confident, and capable learners by equally supporting intellectual, emotional, and social development. A key priority is helping students understand and embrace their own neurodiversity—recognizing how they learn best, advocating for their needs, and celebrating their strengths. Through personalized instruction, social-emotional learning, and hands-on supports, students build resilience, empathy, and self-esteem. Our classrooms foster a safe, affirming environment where differences are not only accepted, but deeply valued. We maintain high expectations while meeting students where they are, helping them grow into individuals who are curious, compassionate, and empowered. Ultimately, OakHaven strives to shape learners with a strong sense of identity, purpose, and the confidence to thrive—both in school and beyond—as proud neurodiverse individuals.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
OakHaven Academy is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
What OakHaven Academy says about their special need support:
At OakHaven Academy, our programming supports students through individualized accommodations, modifications, and therapeutic strategies. With expert educators, small class sizes, visual schedules, sensory-friendly spaces, and consistent routines, we create a supportive, structured environment. Accommodations may include assistive technology, extended time, movement breaks (like trampoline time), and adapted materials to meet students where they are presently at. For those needing modifications, we adjust curriculum expectations while keeping learning meaningful and engaging. We also provide remedial support in literacy, numeracy, and executive functioning through targeted small-group instruction. When appropriate, therapeutic support is integrated into the school day, including social-emotional coaching, and collaboration with speech-language and other specialists.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
What OakHaven Academy says:
At OakHaven Academy, we understand that learning needs can emerge or evolve over time. Our team is skilled in identifying and supporting students who develop learning difficulties while in our care. We provide individualized strategies, collaborate closely with families, and, when needed, connect with external professionals to ensure each child receives appropriate support. Students with clinically diagnosed learning disabilities thrive in our structured, supportive environment using evidence based programs. However, we are always honest about whether we can meet a child’s specific needs. If we believe a student requires resources beyond our scope, we will guide families toward a setting that is better equipped—always with the child’s best interest in mind.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
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.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What OakHaven Academy says about their gifted learner support:
OakHaven Academy for Diverse Learners encourages gifted, creative thinkers to apply their bright ideas in a variety of formats. We take student interest into consideration when planning units of study and classroom activities . Although direct gifted programming is not the focus of our programming, students are encouraged to learn to their greatest capacity. Brilliance and neurodiversity in all forms are celebrated.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 8, OakHaven Academy students perform an average of 15 mins of homework per night.
| JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OakHaven Academy | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins | 15 mins |
| Site Average | 6 mins | 7 mins | 16 mins | 19 mins | 26 mins | 31 mins | 37 mins | 44 mins | 56 mins | 60 mins |
What OakHaven Academy says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| 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 |
