Inclusive Education
Mission Statement:
Alpha Secondary is committed to being an inclusive school. Most of our students experience success within a regular classroom setting. The Inclusive Education department strives to meet the needs of all learners by offering a variety of programs, resources, and learning supports to a wide range of students who require support, adaptations, or Individual Education Plans.
Department Contacts:
Frank McLean – Department Head frank.mclean@burnabyschools.ca
Maya Miljanovic – Access teacher maya.miljanovic@burnabyschools.ca
Ken Suttor-Doerkson – Literacy & Numeracy teacher ken.suttor-doerkson@burnabyschools.ca
Andrej Vlacil – Connect teacher andrej.vlacil@burnabyschools.ca
Isabella De Angelis – Connect teacher isabella.V.deangelis@burnabyschools.ca
Jonathan Lee – Connect/Literacy & Numeracy teacher jonathan.lee@burnabyschools.ca
Jayshree Rana – Connect teacher jayshree.rana@burnabyschools.ca
Alana Sawatsky – Connect teacher alana.sawatsky@burnabyschools.ca
Shea Teixeira – Connect Teacher shea.teixeira@burnabyschools.ca
Jeremy Laroya – Connect teacher jeremy.laroya@burnabyschools.ca
Programs and Supports
Connect:
The Connect program is the Inclusive Education program with the widest scope. Connect classes are offered as a learning support for all students enrolled at Alpha from grade 8 through to grade 12. Connect classes are offered during all blocks of the school day and we try to staff every block with a Humanities and Sci-matics specialist to support students with their learning across all curricular areas. Students are welcome to drop in at any point during the day to access one on one or small group support from the teachers in Connect. Connect teachers also are available to support students in their classes.
Literacy and Numeracy:
The aim of Literacy and Numeracy classes are to support a wide range of diverse learners. In Literacy and Numeracy classes students will work on individually designed literacy and numeracy programs. Most students enrolled in Literacy and Numeracy classes are working on a modified program and are working towards a school-leaving certificate (Evergreen). However, some students move towards the academic graduation track (Dogwood) as skills are gained through the individualized supports offered by these classes. The curriculum encompasses:
- Literacy and Numeracy skills (based on individual needs outlined in IEPs)
- Practical life skills (community safety, transit training, consumer skills, etc.)
- Job Skills (work habits, school jobs, career awareness, work experience, etc.)
- Social Skills (inclusion in mainstream classes whenever possible, communication, emotional regulation, social skills training)
Access Program:
The Access program provides support for exceptional learners. The program provides a wide range of supports throughout a student’s high school years. Individualized programs are designed in consultation with teachers, parents/guardians, educational assistants and outside agencies. The program focusses on:
- Independent living skills, including self-care & self-management skills
- Behaviour management, social skills, and communication
- Daily physical activity, including PT and OT in consultation with the Children’s Health Services Resource Team (CHSRT)
- Functional literacy and numeracy skills
- Inclusion in elective classes
After completing their grade 12 year, students receive a school-leaving certificate (Evergreen).
