education
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The Next Major School Transition for Autistic Students: Challenges & Support Strategies in Grades 7-9
Why the Transition to Grades 7-9 Is Challenging for Autistic Students For autistic students, transitioning from Grade 6 to 7 (middle school) or Grade 8 to 9 (high school) is one of the biggest shifts in their education journey. This transition brings new academic pressures, increased social expectations, and a change in routine—all of which can be difficult for…
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Challenges Faced by Autistic Students in Grade 3: A Critical Transition Year
For autistic students, every school year brings its own set of challenges, but Grade 3 is often one of the most difficult transitions. It’s a year where academic expectations, social demands, and independence increase significantly, making it harder for autistic children to navigate school successfully. In this article, we will explore: ✔ Why Grade 3 is a critical transition…
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How to Be a Great Education Advocate: A Guide for Parents
Advocating for better education policies, resources, and student support is crucial for ensuring every child receives the education they deserve. Whether you are advocating for your own child or for system-wide improvements, knowing how to be an effective education advocate can make a significant difference. In this guide, you’ll learn: ✔ What education advocacy means. ✔ How to effectively communicate with teachers, school administration, and school…
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How to Talk to School Administration & the School Board When Advocating for Your Child
Advocating for your child in school can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with teachers, principals, school administration, and school board officials. However, knowing how to communicate effectively, professionally, and strategically can make a big difference in ensuring your child gets the support they need. Whether you’re addressing concerns about learning support, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), special education services, bullying,…
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Psychoeducational Assessment: What Parents Need to Know
A psychoeducational assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that helps identify a child’s learning strengths, challenges, and cognitive abilities. It provides valuable insights into how a child processes information, which can guide educational support, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and accommodations in school. If your child is struggling with learning, attention, or emotional regulation, a psychoeducational assessment can provide answers and a roadmap for success. In this…
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YCDSB’s Multi-Year Financial Recovery Plan: What Parents Need to Know
The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) has recently approved a Multi-Year Financial Recovery Plan (MYFRP) to address a $10.5 million deficit for the 2024-25 school year. This plan aims to balance the budget by 2026-27, ensuring the long-term financial stability of the board. However, several cost-cutting measures—including the discontinuation of literacy intervention programs—have raised concerns among parents and educators. In this…
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Understanding the Impact of Discontinuing YCDSB’s Intensive Literacy Intervention Teacher (ILIT) Program
The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) has recently approved a Multi-Year Financial Recovery Plan (MYFRP) to address budgetary challenges. A significant component of this plan is the discontinuation of the Intensive Literacy Intervention Teacher (ILIT) program, a decision that has raised concerns among educators and parents alike. Overview of the ILIT Program The ILIT program was designed to provide…
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Understanding YCDSB School Policies: What Parents Need to Know
The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) has a set of school policies and regulations that guide how schools operate, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and effective learning environment for all students. Whether you’re a new parent or have children already enrolled in a YCDSB school, understanding these policies can help you navigate the education system, advocate for your child, and stay informed about…
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How School Boundaries and Transfers Work in YCDSB: A Parent’s Guide
Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and understanding school boundaries and transfer policies in the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) can help parents make informed choices. Whether you’re enrolling your child for the first time, moving to a new neighborhood, or considering a school transfer, this guide covers everything you need to know…
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French Immersion in YCDSB: Everything You Need to Know
French Immersion is a popular program for parents who want their children to become bilingual in English and Frenchwhile receiving a high-quality Catholic education. The York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) offers French Immersion starting in Grade 1, providing students with enhanced language skills, cultural awareness, and academic opportunities. If you’re considering French Immersion in YCDSB, this guide covers: ✔ How the…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 