teaching
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The Difference Between Accommodations and Modifications in an IEP
For parents navigating the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process, understanding the difference between accommodations and modifications is essential. These two terms determine how your child learns and what they are expected to learn in school. Confusing the two can lead to inappropriate support, which may impact your child’s progress, self-confidence, and future educational opportunities. In this blog, we’ll cover: ✔ What are accommodations? ✔ What are…
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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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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…
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YCDSB vs. YRDSB: Which School System Is Right for Your Child?
Choosing between the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB) and the York Region District School Board (YRDSB) is an important decision for parents in York Region. Both school boards offer high-quality education, but they differ in curriculum, values, school culture, and extracurricular opportunities. This guide will help you understand the key differences between YCDSB and YRDSB so you can make the best choice for…
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Why You Still Need an IPRC Even If Your Child Has an IEP
Parents navigating Ontario’s special education system often hear about IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) and IPRCs (Identification, Placement, and Review Committees). If your child already has an IEP, you might wonder if pursuing an IPRC designation is necessary. The short answer? Yes! While an IEP provides essential support, an IPRC offers legal protection, formal recognition, and guaranteed access to specialized placements. In this post, we’ll explore the difference…
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 