Inclusion and Diversity

33 Central strives to provide inclusive learning for all students. We use an equity-based model of education, which means that our goal is for every student to have what they need to be successful. Equity is not the same as equality, where every student is given the exact same resources.

 

Through equity we try to meet students where they currently are. We use assessment tools to figure out where their academic strengths are. We also spend time learning about students social and emotional needs. By assessing in this way, 33 Central teachers can develop plans that are unique to the strengths and challenges of each student. Your child’s teacher can provide more information about the specific assessment practices they use to get to know your child.

 

Adapting to student needs in a way that is inclusive also means respecting confidentiality. This extends to situations where school staff are required to discipline students. An equitable learning environment requires discipline to be delivered in a way that holds students accountable for their behavior and choices without shaming them (which can have an adverse effect on learning). Just like with learning support, discipline is tailored to the unique needs of students. 33 Central staff view discipline as a teachable moment; an opportunity to build skills so students have tools to make positive choices the next time they are faced with a similar situation. Respecting confidentiality means that other students and parents may not see the discipline occur, or they may see that another student is receiving a service that their child is not receiving. 33 Central can only provide information about your child to you, their parent or guardian.

 

Each child comes to school with abilities and needs that belong to only them. As parents will know well, those needs change and grow frequently as kids change and grow. In all that change, the constant goal is that our 33 Central school community is a place where every student has the support they need to be safe to learn, make mistakes and try again.