Special Education
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Yesterday I Received a Flyer About Bill 33 — Here’s Why Every Ontario Parent Should Pay Attention
Yesterday, when I picked up my child from school, a teacher handed me a flyer about Bill 33, officially called the Supporting Children and Students Act (2025). I tucked it into my bag, thinking it was another school notice about upcoming events. Later that evening, I finally read it — and I’m glad I did. What I…
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The Hidden Risks of Removing Ontario’s School Board Trustees
A Big Change on the Horizon The Ford government has floated the idea of getting rid of elected school board trustees. Education Minister Paul Calandra says this could fix mismanagement issues in some boards. But the idea raises big questions: who will speak for parents and local communities if trustees disappear? Why Trustees Matter Trustees are the…
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How to Prepare for a Successful Transition Meeting: A Parent’s Guide for Grade One and Beyond (YCDSB)
By Yan Zhou – SEAC Member, Parent, and Advocate for Exceptional Learners Introduction Transition meetings play a vital role in supporting students as they move from Kindergarten to Grade One or shift between programs or classrooms within the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). For students with exceptionalities, these meetings are especially important to ensure…
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Raising Twice-Exceptional (2e) Children: A Parent’s Comprehensive Guide to Nurturing Strengths and Supporting Struggles
Raising a twice-exceptional (2e) child — someone who is gifted and also has learning differences — is a complex, often misunderstood parenting journey. These children are intellectually advanced but may also struggle with ADHD, autism, anxiety, dyslexia, or other diagnoses. While their potential is immense, it often comes wrapped in layers of social, emotional, and…
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What Does Scribing Look Like in an IEP? A Parent’s Guide
What Does Scribing Look Like in an IEP? A Parent’s Guide As parents, we want our children to succeed in school — and that means making sure the right supports are in place. One commonly misunderstood IEP accommodation is “Scribing.” If a teacher or school asks you for input on your child’s IEP and mentions…
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Can outside professionals work in schools?
Can Outside Professionals Work in Schools? A Parent’s Perspective As a parent navigating the school system, especially when your child has special learning or developmental needs, you might wonder: “Can I bring my child’s private therapist, SLP, OT, BCBA, or psychologist into the school or classroom to help?” I’ve asked that question myself. And after…
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A Parent’s Roadmap: What to Do If You Suspect or Have a Diagnosis for Your Child’s Special Needs
If you suspect your child has special needs or they have already been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, a learning disability, speech delay, or another developmental challenge, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Navigating school-based support, psychoeducational assessments, IEPs (Individual Education Plans), and advocacy can be complicated, but the earlier you take action, the better the outcomes for your…
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IEP Accommodations & Modifications Guide for YCDSB Parents
📌 Understanding the difference between accommodations and modifications is essential for advocating for the right support in your child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This guide explains what each means, how they affect your child’s learning, and examples of what you can request in YCDSB schools. 📌 What’s the Difference Between Accommodations & Modifications? Feature Accommodations 💡 Modifications ✏️…
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Checklist: What to Bring to an IEP Meeting (YCDSB Parents)
📌 An IEP meeting is an important opportunity to ensure your child receives the right support at school. Use this checklist to prepare and bring everything you need for a productive discussion. ✔ Essential Documents ☐ Copy of the Current IEP (if applicable) – Review it before the meeting to identify areas needing updates. ☐ Report Cards & Progress…
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IEP Request Letter Template for YCDSB Parents
📌 Use this template to formally request an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child at a YCDSB school. Personalize it with your child’s details before sending it to the school principal. [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, Postal Code] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] [Date] To: [Principal’s Name] [School Name] [School Address] [City, Postal Code] Subject: Request for an…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 