How We Meet the Diverse Needs of Our Students
Advanced Placement Courses
The AP program continues a tradition of achievement, by providing students with the opportunity for academic enrichment. At Senator O’Connor, a select cohort of students studies at the AP (Enriched) level in Core Courses from Grade 9 through 12. Students enter this program through an application process undertaken in Grade 8. Students in AP courses study topics in greater depth, enhancing their intellectual development. A flexible program, it can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual; students have the opportunity to participate in specific AP subjects in their fields of interest. Students are exposed to university level content and expectations, allowing them to feel more comfortable and have more confidence once they reach the academic setting of university. Writing AP College Board exams at the end of Grade 12 can lead to the acquisition of equivalent credits in participating universities in Canada, the United States and overseas.
Extended/Immersion French
The Extended/Immersion French program is a continuation of the elementary early or middle French immersion program. Students who have successfully completed a minimum of ten French courses, four in Extended/Immersion French and six in other subjects taught in French (géographie, histoire and religion) will receive an Extended/Immersion French Certificate upon graduation.
Our students are encouraged to take advantage of outside activities, competitions and foreign exchanges. A fun-filled trip to Quebec provides opportunity to practice their French Language skills.
Specialist High Skills Major Programs (SHSM)
Senator O’Connor has Ministry of Education approved Specialist High Skills Major programs in both Business and Sports. The SHSM program allows students to focus their learning on a specific sector related area while meeting the requirements for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Students are required to take specific courses including a cooperative education experience, complete certifications and also participate in reach ahead opportunities. Enrollment for students with a particular interest in business or sports begins at the end of grade 11.
English as a Second Language
Senator O’Connor offers four levels of ESL classes for students who have recently arrived in Canada.
ESL courses:
· build on students’ previous education and language knowledge
· help students adjust to their new cultural environment.
· teach basic orientation information related to students’ needs as newcomers to Canada
English Language Learners (ELL) in mainstream classes:
Accommodations are in place to help students succeed in these classes. Accommodations for ELL students may be in the form of extra time to write quizzes, tests and exams, use of bilingual dictionaries, working with peer mentors, language-reduced assignments, etc.
The Gifted/Enriched Program
This program allows students to experience a variety of learning opportunities that enables students to expand and enrich their high school experience. The program is designed for students who have been identified as Gifted by the Toronto Catholic District School Board or students who achieve excellent marks in school and would like an extra challenge. Students who participate in the Gifted program have a multitude of opportunities, both in the school and outside.
Enriched courses at O’Connor cover more material and are faster paced than Academic-level courses.
The Resource Department
At O’Connor, we believe in preparing students to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world. Our students are encouraged to work to their full potential. Through a nurturing and caring environment, the O’Connor Resource Department strives to create an atmosphere for success. Since all identified students have a right to an integrated education, the teachers at O’Connor provide students with a program that meets their needs.
Some of our students choose to take the Learning Strategies course (GLE) which is a credited course. Students work on improving basic language, math, study and organizational skills to become effective independent learners.
The DD/ME Program
Senator O’Connor’s ME / DD class provides education and support for students who have multiple exceptionalities (ME) and developmental delays (DD). The goal of the program is to provide students with appropriate learning experiences focusing on the development of life skills.
Enrollment
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