Inclusive Education
Providing a robust continuum of supports and services
At CIS, teachers and other specialist staff establish, promote and sustain an inclusive learning environment where diversity is embraced and every student is welcomed, cared for, respected and safe.
Inclusion is an attitude and approach that embraces diversity and learner differences, and promotes equal opportunities for all students.
Each student is unique. Some learners have ongoing needs; others have short-term or situation-based needs. This calls for flexible and responsive learning environments that can adapt to the changing requirements of students.
At CIS, teachers use evidence-based instructional practices and strategies to support student engagement. These universal supports are incorporated into day-to-day teaching and learning. In addition, CIS offers targeted supports and services to groups of students who require additional supports or interventions to be successful with their learning. These are designed to build specific skills and reduce barriers that interfere with learning or social-emotional well-being. Our continuum of supports and services includes English as an Additional Language (EAL) programming, learning support, speech and language services, and social-emotional counselling.
CIS does not provide specialized or individualized supports or services, such as psychological services, supports requiring specialized equipment, on-site physical therapy or medical care.
ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE
CIS has a skilled team of EAL teachers who specialize in supporting students whose first language is not English. They help students develop their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills in English, with a focus on improving their ability to understand and communicate effectively in both academic and social contexts. EAL teachers tailor instruction to meet the diverse needs of students, often working in small groups or providing one-on-one targeted language support.
LEARNING SUPPORT
Our learning support teachers assist students with diverse learning needs. They provide targeted instruction and support students’ specific challenges, helping them to achieve their academic goals. Learning support teachers collaborate with classroom teachers to adapt lesson plans and create inclusive learning environments. They also assess students' progress, implement interventions, and may work with parents and specialists to develop strategies for improving learning outcomes. Ultimately, learning support teachers empower students to overcome barriers to learning.
SPEECH-LANGUAGE SERVICES
Our speech-language pathologist provides highly specialized communication and language support. Our pathologist assesses speech and language issues, develops individualized support plans, and provides therapies to improve students’ speech articulation, language comprehension, and social communication skills. They collaborate with teachers and parents to create strategies that enhance communication in the classroom and everyday settings. Additionally, our pathologist offers training and resources to staff so they may better support students with speech and language challenges, ultimately fostering better academic and social outcomes for all students.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL COUNSELLING
At CIS we have social-emotional counsellors in our Elementary School and in our Middle School and High School. These professionals play a vital role in supporting students’ mental health and emotional well-being by providing individual and group counseling for those facing emotional, social or behavioral challenges. They facilitate skill development in areas such as emotional regulation and conflict resolution, respond to crises with immediate support, and collaborate with teachers, staff and parents to create a nurturing environment. Additionally, they implement school-wide initiatives to promote social-emotional learning and refer students and families to external mental health resources and support when necessary.