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Opportunities for each student to reach their potential
INCLUSIVE SUPPORT FOR EVERY LEARNER
Special education at DSBN focuses on unlocking the potential in every learner through individualized, student‑centred support. We partner with students, families, and communities to build on each child’s strengths and needs so they can grow as confident, independent learners. Together, we create inclusive environments where every student feels valued, supported, and able to succeed.
An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a personalized learning plan that outlines a student’s strengths, needs, and the supports required to help them succeed. It is developed collaboratively with families and school staff and is reviewed regularly to reflect the student’s progress.
An Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC) is a meeting where school staff, parents/guardians, and students (age 16 and older) work together to determine a student’s exceptionalities, placement, and supports.
The Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is a group of school board representatives, community organizations, and staff who provide advice and recommendations to the DSBN on special education programs and services.
At the DSBN, students are at the centre of a collaborative support network that includes families, school staff, and specialized professionals working together to create inclusive and responsive learning environments.
Explore our community partners and discover the services, resources, and supports available to students and families throughout their special education journey.
Stay informed about upcoming webinars, workshops, fairs, and family information sessions that support student success, inclusion, and well-being.
Kindergarten
Starting kindergarten can bring excitement and questions, especially when your child may need extra support. This video is designed for kindergarten families who want to better understand Special Education services and feel confident navigating the process at any point in their child’s journey.
All students with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) will have a transition plan to support them. At the DSBN, transition processes may include:
Preschool Process
The goal: to help preschool children with learning needs start school successfully.
This process includes creating transition plans, sharing information, and supporting families who are new to DSBN.
Grade 8 to 9
The goal: to help students make a successful transition from elementary to secondary school.
A transition form is completed for every student entering Grade 9 and shared with the school so staff can understand each student’s strengths and needs. For students with an IEP, this may include a meeting with elementary and secondary school staff to create a transition plan.
Deaf & Hard of Hearing
The goal: to help support a smooth transition to a DSBN school.
The Resource Teacher – Deaf and Hard of Hearing works with the Infant Hearing Program and community agencies such as Niagara Children’s Centre, VOICE Auditory Verbal Therapists, and the Provincial School for the Deaf.
Transition Aged Youth
The goal: to help students with developmental disabilities prepare for adulthood.
TAY planning usually begins in Grade 9 and is reviewed each year until age 18. Students, families, school staff and community partners work together to create a plan that supports the student’s goals, daily living skills, community participation, work opportunities, and future adult services.
THE ANSWER IS YES!
For over 20 years, DSBN Special Olympics has been a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are supported, celebrated and empowered to say ‘yes’ to new opportunities, challenges, and experiences. Throughout the day, students demonstrate incredible teamwork, determination and heart.