Special Education

Special Education

At PECI, we believe that all students can achieve success. We are committed to providing enabling, inclusive, and dynamic educational experiences in the least restrictive learning environment possible. Our approach is grounded in a Continuous Assessment Process, with a strong focus on early intervention, proactive program planning, and ongoing support to maximize student achievement.

We recognize that each student has unique needs and provide a wide variety of interventions and accommodations within the regular class program to support all learners. Students with exceptional learning needs are also supported by designated Learning Support Teachers (LSTs) in addition to classroom teachers and shared Educational Assistant support.

For further support, families are encouraged to reach out to the main office to request assistance from the Elementary or Secondary LST.

In some cases, a system referral to HPEDSB Education Services department for placement outside the regular programming may be considered to meet the specific learning needs of exceptional learners with highly complex needs.  These are called regional placements and are supported and determined by the a central team at HPEDSB across schools in the system. PECI offers three specialized programs to support students:

  • Elementary Regional Classroom: Focuses on teaching everyday skills with a focus on numeracy/literacy.  Students are often integrated into peer level classes to support learning.

  • The Life Skills Program (LSP) Secondary: Focuses on teaching life skills, numeracy/literacy, and community/independent living skills through alternative (non-credit, K) courses. Students in LSP will leave secondary school with a Certificate of Accomplishment.

  • The Community Integration Program (CIP): Aims to support the attainment of Ministry credits at Locally Developed and Workplace levels, develop technology skills, and provide work experience. Students in CIP work towards graduation with an Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC), which requires the successful completion of a minimum of 14 Ministry credits (7 compulsory and 7 elective).

For more information about special education programming at PECI, please consult the Parent/Guardian Special Education Guide or reach out to the main office for further assistance.