What Can I Expect?

There is a referral process to identify and support students who need individualized programming to support student achievement and well-being. The steps in the referral process may include: 

• development of a growth plan
• in-school team meetings
• Identification, Placement and Review Committee
• development of an Individual Education Plan

A Growth Plan outlines focused support to meet individual student needs. If the planned interventions are successful, staff and/or students will continue with those interventions. 

An In-School Team Meeting brings together a team of people to support success and programming for the strengths and needs of the student. The school team works together to support the student, family and each other through planning, documenting and implementing supports and strategies. They regularly monitor progress.  The In-School Team Meeting includes an administrator, special education resource teacher (SERT) and classroom teacher, and can include others who have information or expertise to contribute.   

The Identification Placement Review Committee (IPRC) meets to decide whether a child should be identified as “exceptional.” An exceptional pupil is defined as a pupil whose behavioural, communication, intellectual, physical or multiple exceptionalities are such that he or she is considered to need placement in a special education program. The IPRC 

• Identifies the category and area of exceptionality. 
• Decides on an appropriate placement for the child who is identified as exceptional.
• Reviews the identification and placement at least once in each school year. 

An Individual Education Plan is a working document and written plan that describes the special education program and/or services required by a particular student, based on a thorough assessment of the student’s strengths and needs. Learn more about Individual Education Plans.

We have experts in our Board who support student learning and well-being, including:

• psychologists

• speech-language pathologists

• physical and occupational therapists

• social workers

• blind/low vision and deaf and hard of hearing services

We also work collaboratively with health care professionals and community agencies to further support student success. 

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