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R.I.S.E. Academy ACADEMICS & Curriculum
Page Contents
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at R.I.S.E. Academy: Reggio Emilia, Montessori
R.I.S.E. Academy has a Reggio Emilia, Montessori approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Waldorf approach).
[Show: About Reggio Emilia, Montessori?]
R.I.S.E. Academy has a Montessori approach to supplementary curriculum.
Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
International curriculum & programs at R.I.S.E. Academy: Duke of Edinburgh's Award
What R.I.S.E. Academy says about their overall curriculum and approach:
R.I.S.E. Academy offers a personalized, hands-on curriculum rooted in inquiry, project-based learning, and real-world application. Our approach is flexible and relationship-driven, designed to meet students where they are and adapt to their unique needs, strengths, and goals. We offer one-to-one virtual instruction, community-based programming, and pop-up experiences that allow youth to earn high school credits while pursuing extracurricular passions. R.I.S.E. is especially committed to supporting neurodiverse students and those who’ve struggled in traditional school settings. We remove barriers by eliminating rigid schedules, large class sizes, and standardized assessments. Instead, we focus on student voice, choice, and strengths-based learning. Our programs are trauma-informed and culturally responsive, with regular check-ins, personalized feedback, and wraparound support. Whether through credit recovery, experiential learning, or mentorship, R.I.S.E. empowers youth to regain confidence, re-engage with education, and envision a future where they thrive.
Montessori program(s) offered
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Montessori toddler | |
| Casa | |
| Elementary | |
| Middle School | |
| High School |
Approach
| Focus | Special needs |
|---|---|
| Academic | Troubled Teens, Special needs |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at R.I.S.E. Academy: Equal Balance
R.I.S.E. Academy has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
At R.I.S.E. Academy, our math program is fully personalized and designed to meet each student’s individual learning needs. Youth work one-to-one with their dedicated math teacher to co-create a program that fits their goals, learning style, and pace. Whether students need to build foundational skills, catch up on missed credits, or challenge themselves with advanced concepts, our flexible approach ensures they’re supported every step of the way. There’s no need for an outside tutor—students have direct access to their teacher, who is focused entirely on helping them succeed. With ongoing support, real-time feedback, and meaningful instruction, students build confidence and deepen their understanding of math in a way that makes sense to them. By removing the pressures of traditional classrooms and emphasizing relationship-based teaching, our program empowers youth to thrive in math and beyond.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Science
Teaching approach:
This information is not currently available.
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
What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Humanities and Social Sciences
What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Foreign Languages
What R.I.S.E. 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
Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Computers and Technology
What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
What R.I.S.E. Academy says:
This information is not currently available.
Montessori Approach
R.I.S.E. Academy's Montessori approach. Learn about this school's class practices and policies as well as its curricular and teaching approach.
This information is not currently available.
Overall approach
Classroom practices
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Whole-class lectures
Orthodox
Whole-class lectures should never be given. Students learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately orthodox
Whole-class lectures should only be given occasionally (e.g., at the beginning of a term or unit). Students usually learn best through small group lessons, interaction, and independent work.
Moderately non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given semi-regularly (e.g., at the beginning of a lesson or a week). While students often learn best through group and independent work, it's sometimes important for teachers to set the stage for and contextualize learning.
Non-orthodox
Whole-class lectures should be given often (e.g., every day). While group and independent learning is important, teachers need to provide lectures on a regular basis to provide the foundation for learning.
Teaching assistants
Language
Learn about R.I.S.E. Academy's languages of instruction and enrolment.
R.I.S.E. Academy offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English, French
Language immersion include: French immersion
Online Learning
R.I.S.E. Academy's online learning approach and offerings. Learn about this school's online programs and courses offered, its course formats, and its teaching and learning approaches.
R.I.S.E. Academy operates as an online school.
Course format
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Distance | |
| Asynchronous | |
| Synchronous |
What R.I.S.E. Academy says about their course format:
Synchronous: R.I.S.E. Academy delivers face-to-face meetings through a highly personalized approach tailored to each student’s needs. Sessions are held in small, supportive environments where students meet one-on-one or in small groups with certified teachers and professionals. For programs involving co-teaching with psychotherapists, meetings blend academic instruction with therapeutic support, ensuring holistic development. These meetings are designed to foster meaningful connections, build confidence, and provide targeted guidance to help students thrive. Whether focusing on academics, mental health, or skill-building, R.I.S.E. ensures every interaction is impactful, fostering growth in a safe, inclusive, and empowering space for students to excel.
Academic support and services
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Dedicated teacher per course | |
| Exam proctoring | |
| Student progress tracker | |
| Regular office hours | |
| Additional support | |
| Study groups | |
| Special needs support |
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at R.I.S.E. Academy: Student-paced
R.I.S.E. Academy has a Student-paced approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Standard-enriched, Accelerated approach).
[Show: About Student-paced?]
What R.I.S.E. Academy says about their curriculum pace:
Our one-to-one, student-driven programming allows each learner to progress at their own pace. With a dedicated facilitator, students co-create personalized learning plans and timelines that reflect their interests, goals, and schedules. This flexible model ensures youth are supported, engaged, and empowered to succeed on their own terms.
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 R.I.S.E. Academy says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at R.I.S.E. Academy: Supportive
R.I.S.E. Academy has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What R.I.S.E. Academy says about their academic culture:
At R.I.S.E. Academy, academic success is defined by progress, engagement, and personal growth—not rigid benchmarks. Our culture emphasizes curiosity, effort, and real-world learning over grades and deadlines. We foster a supportive environment where students co-create expectations with their teachers, ensuring goals are realistic, meaningful, and achievable. Learners are encouraged to take ownership of their education, reflect on their progress, and celebrate milestones. With flexible pacing and individualized support, we prioritize mastery and understanding. Our one-to-one approach allows students to feel seen, heard, and empowered, creating a culture where academic achievement is personalized and deeply connected to each student’s strengths, interests, and aspirations.
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 R.I.S.E. Academy says about their developmental priorities:
At R.I.S.E. Academy, we aim to develop confident, compassionate, and capable young people who understand their value and power to make change. We prioritize critical thinking, creativity, and resilience, helping students become self-aware learners and engaged citizens. Our programs foster leadership, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. By connecting education to real-world issues and personal passions, we encourage students to see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and changemakers. We support them in developing the life skills—communication, collaboration, adaptability, and initiative—needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Ultimately, we strive to shape individuals who are not only academically successful but also grounded, purpose-driven, and ready to lead with integrity.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
R.I.S.E. Academy is a Special needs school
Full-time programming is offered for all students which is exclusively focused on one or more special needs.
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 R.I.S.E. Academy says:
At R.I.S.E. Academy, we are deeply committed to supporting all learners, including those who develop learning difficulties. Our one-to-one, personalized approach allows us to quickly identify challenges and adapt programming in real time. We collaborate closely with families, specialists, and the student to create strategies that foster success. Our flexible, strength-based model is often ideal for those who haven’t thrived in traditional settings. With patience, understanding, and individualized support, we help students navigate their challenges while building confidence, skills, and a renewed love for learning. Every learner is welcome and capable of success at R.I.S.E.
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: Acceleration and enrichment
There is an equal emphasis on acceleration and enrichment.
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 R.I.S.E. Academy says about their gifted learner support:
At R.I.S.E. Academy, gifted learners thrive through personalized, one-to-one programming that allows them to move at their own pace and explore topics deeply. We offer enrichment opportunities, project-based learning, and flexible pathways that align with their interests and strengths. Students can accelerate through material, take on advanced coursework, and engage in real-world challenges that keep them inspired and motivated. Our goal is to nurture curiosity, creativity, and leadership in every gifted learner.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
