Student Services      *  *  *  *  *  *  *

 

The Student Services Department at KCVI consists of experienced Teacher Counsellors, Learning Program Support Teachers, Student Success Teachers, an Adolescent Care Worker and a Guidance Secretary. As well, Board and community agency support personnel are available on a consultative basis. Teacher counsellors are available for career and academic counselling, as well as personal and social counselling. In addition to working with students who have difficulties coping with the regular school program, the Learning Program Support Teacher may work with subject teachers in arranging individual tutoring services, assisting with enrichment programs, and providing special arrangements for exceptional students. Student Services exists for the benefit of students and their parents/guardians. The Guidance Secretary is available to make appointments and assist students in obtaining the appropriate services.

 

Student Success      *  *  *  *  *  *  *

 

STUDENT SUCCESS – REACHING EVERY STUDENT

 

The Limestone District School Board, through its secondary school program, is committed to equip all students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and experiences they need for successful outcomes that will ensure smooth transitions to the postsecondary destinations of their choice. KCVI offers educational programs that promote high standards while providing students with learning opportunities and supports needed for success.

 

Successful completion of secondary education in Ontario is important and a valuable step towards postsecondary opportunities. Students may create or choose a program pathway that prepares them for direct entry to:

·         Apprenticeship Programs

·         College

·         Community Living

·         University

·         The Workplace

 

There is value, honour and dignity in all postsecondary destinations and all sectors of employment. A student’s Program Pathway is his or her educational program and reflects the goals that help motivate him or her to complete secondary school. Building a successful pathway through school requires planning and is a co-operative effort involving students, parent/guardians, teachers and guidance counsellors. Factors that must be considered in planning include:

·         Most recent levels of achievement

·         Preferred learning style

·         Strengths, interests and abilities

·         Immediate educational needs

 

Early success in high school is essential. Statistics in Ontario show very clearly that successful completion of courses in grades 9 and 10 is a significant factor in students remaining in school. Appropriate course selection and a proactive plan for success are important. All Limestone DSB schools have a strong focus on Student Success. Classroom teachers, student success teachers, guidance counsellors, learning support teachers, adolescent care workers and administrators form strong School Success Teams dedicated to successful outcomes for all students. For students making the transition from grade 8 to 9, there has never been greater attention paid to their strengths, interests and needs, while focusing on opportunities for success. For all students there are expanded opportunities designed to ensure successful completion of high school – Focus Programs, Alternative Programs, Co-operative Education and Work Experiences, Certification Training, Dual Credits and the Specialist High Skills Major.

 

This course calendar and with the web-based “MyBlueprint” student planner are valuable tools to assist families in planning and reviewing a pathway to success for all students.

 

It is our goal that every student will be a success! In compliance with the provincial government’s implementation of student success, the school provides intervention strategies, supports and programs including Credit Recovery opportunities, student success teacher support, and grade 8 to 9 transition programs for students at risk. Student Success Teachers know and track the progress of students at risk of not graduating; support school-wide efforts to improve outcomes for students struggling with the secondary curriculum; re-engage early school leavers; provide direct support/instruction to these students to improve student achievement, retention, and transitions; work with parents and the community to support student success. At KCVI the Student Success Team consists of the Principal, Student Success Teachers, Guidance Teachers and the Adolescent Care Worker.

 

Adolescent Care Worker      *  *  *  *  *  *

 

At KCVI, an adolescent care worker is responsible for supporting students whose behavioural, social and emotional issues interfere with their success in the regular school program. The role involves direct liaison with school personnel, community agencies, and families.

 

Learning Program Support      *  *  *  *  *

 

Ever had any of these problems?

 

I am unable to finish tests in the given time.

I can’t listen and write notes at the same time.

I have great ideas but can’t get them written down.

When I sit down to do an assignment I can’t get started.

I get lost when I am reading.

I know that I’m smart but I’m slower than everyone else.

I write using simple sentences because I’m afraid I’ll spell the big words in my head wrong.

I am afraid to let anyone see my writing because it’s so terrible.

I have never been able to memorize my times tables and I can’t do math.

I make all kinds of mechanical errors in math but I know how to do it.

I have terrible problems copying things correctly.

I can’t keep myself organized.

Sometimes I get so anxious about school work I can’t think straight.

I do well on day to day work but I blow my exams.

None of the stuff I studied was on the exam.

My English assignments suck.

I am overwhelmed by school.

I have trouble paying attention to the teacher no matter how hard I try or where I sit.

My friends are really smart and I feel really dumb when I get my marks, even though I know I’m as smart as they are.

I really need help with study skills.

 

Purpose of the LPS Program

 

The LPS Program is designed to help students with identified learning problems that require support outside the regular classroom. In addition, students who have additional, non-identified learning needs may access the LPS program either by teacher, parent or self-referral. The program intends to make academic success a real possibility for these students.

 

Support Available for students with Identified and Suspected Learning Differences

 

Many different types of support are available for students with learning differences and difficulties. Each student who comes into the LPS program will be treated individually and a program of support is set up for that student that meets his/her individual learning needs.

 

Types of support available may include:

·         Resource Period for Credit

·         Credit Counselling

·         Tutoring

·         Special Exam Room

·         Resource Area Testing - double time, computer access, scribing, oral evaluation, quiet work area

·         Note taking and photocopy support

·         Study Skills

·         Organizational Skills - time management, planning assignments, notebooks

·         Transitions for Special Needs going on to Post Secondary

·         Access to On-Line to Success at Queen’s University

·         Psycho educational Assessment

·         Access to additional teacher, Educational Assistant, or peer tutor support

·         Access to Hearing, Vision, Physical support

·         IPRC’s - Identification Placement and Review Committee meetings

·         IEP’s - Individual Education Plan

·         Ongoing support and counselling

·         Assistance with referrals to outside agencies or other counselling

·         SEA - Special Equipment Allocation Grants

·         Sharing Meetings with feeder schools

 

Courses available through the LPS Program

 

GLS1OK 2OK 3OK or 4OK

 

These one credit courses are designed to support students who need resource support but are not identified under the IPRC process. These courses will help students develop learning strategies to assist them in becoming more independent learners. Students will learn how to develop and apply literacy and numeracy skills and personal management skills. Interpersonal and teamwork skills will be worked on in order to improve their learning and achievement in school, the workplace and the community. This course will help students build confidence and motivation to pursue opportunities for success in secondary school and beyond