Purpose and Goals
- Our staff are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment that supports the success and well-being of every student.
- Our schools are communities of faith shared through daily prayer and a commitment to Gospel values.
- Our schools welcoming and vibrant school cultures celebrate diversity as an asset that enriches the learning experience for all students.
- Partnerships with local parishes and our families ensure that students experience an education embedded with religious values.
Program Description
SCDSB is committed to the success and well-being of every student as it works to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse society. Educators, administrators, and resource support staff create an environment in which students of varied cultures and languages thrive and grow in mind, body, and spirit.
In elementary classrooms at SCDSB, students learn English while they are learning the curriculum alongside same-aged peers in mainstream classrooms with both teacher and resource support. The initial STEP assessment to assist in programming of ELL students if required. The mainstream classroom offers opportunities for second-language acquisition, social integration, and academic growth.
In secondary schools at SCDSB, the initial STEP assessments for language and math are used to help determine appropriate academic placement for students. Students are also well-supported across all subject areas by an ELL resource teacher and student success teachers committed to student achievement.
Understanding the English Language Learner: Definitions
English Language Learners (ELLs):
Students whose first language is not English or is a variety of English that is significantly different from the variety used in Ontario Schools
English as a Second Language (ESL):
The programs and resources that are offered to support ELLs to assist them in attaining English language proficiency
Initial STEP Assessment: Getting it Right from the Start:
For newcomers to a Canada the Steps to English Proficiency (STEP) initial assessment of ELL students is used to obtain a clear picture of their educational, cultural and personal backgrounds; their level of proficiency in English, and their linguistic and academic needs.
Steps to English Proficiency
Using the STEP continuum, trained resource support staff:
- Develop a student profile;
- Provide a starting point for instruction and next steps;
- Support programming;
- Closely monitor progress.