Guidance on the path to life long learning

The guiding principle for presenting curriculum at March Academy is the premise that students will be lifelong learners. To achieve this state of acceptance of new ideas and information, it is essential that they be excited by learning and that they know how to learn. Skills taught in isolation, or facts memorized for a test, do nothing to inspire or support a learning being. Our goal at March Academy is to rekindle the spark for learning, focusing primarily on what students can do.

Curriculum presented at March Academy is based on the Ontario Ministry of Education expectations as the underlying framework for all activities. The Academy utilizes students’ strengths and interests to help build and support the development of academic skills. Wherever possible, suggestions made for individual students by health and educational professionals are incorporated into tasks to facilitate learning. Developing self-advocacy and classroom skills are key objectives to encourage students towards independence in learning.

Skill-based programs are largely multi-sensory, to address all types of learners. Where gaps exist in students' skills, they are addressed by revisiting and re-teaching using a different approach. Students are given the opportunity to understand how they learn best and are guided to take responsibility for finding coping strategies to help them succeed. The foundation for success is built upon what they can do, not by continually revisiting what they can't do.

Open communication provides parents with a view of their child's progress. More formal anecdotal reports, addressing strengths, needs and next steps, are provided at the end of each of the three terms. Testing skills and strategies are covered as a necessary tool for the education system in general.

It is important that the learning experience encompass the whole child. Music, art, science, drama and physical education are as integral a part of the program as language and math. Working with others, showing manners and respect as well as communicating ideas, thoughts and feelings are essential life skills and, as such, are integral components of daily lessons.

There is no magic wand for students with learning challenges. Much of what they have to do is hard work. Given the right attitude and the right set of circumstances, they will see themselves as achievers.

Students at March Academy participate in a wide variety of activities:

Music: Students receive weekly piano lessons from Mrs. Donna Hawkes, a piano teacher for over 25 years. These lessons culminate in an annual piano recital in June.

Tae Kwon Do: Students participate in weekly martial arts lessons from a qualified instructor. The focus of instruction is on improving their self-confidence, agility and concentration.

Yoga: Students benefit from weekly yoga sessions with a certified yoga instructor. Yoga lessons introduce students to the concept of relaxation, flexibility and increased body awareness.

Art: Students receive instruction in theme-related lessons, which aim to improve a student's spatial ability and to develop an appreciation of the visual arts. Local guest artists occasionally visit to offer instruction in their particular artistic areas.

Physical Fitness: Students participate in physical education sessions taught by a certified Ontario teacher. Lessons focus on fun and fitness, and are designed to encourage a student's sense of self-esteem in their abilities. Students also participate in a Running Club, which is held three days per week and culminates in a fun run to support local charities. Sensory Integration and brain exercises are incorporated into daily lessons. All children have the opportunity to participate in our lunch time Cross-country Ski Club throughout the winter months using our large school yard.

In the past activities have included:

• Swimming lessons at the Kanata Wave Pool
• Skiing lessons at Mount Pakenham
• Skating at local area rinks and the Canal
• Field trips to the Science Centre, Parliament Buildings, National Arts Centre and National Art Gallery
• Hip Hop
• Drama
• Fencing
• Pottery
• Environmental Art

Diamond Recognition Award

For 2008/2009 March Academy has received Physical & Health Education Canada's Diamond Recognition Award for Physical Education. The Diamond Award is the highest level Quality Daily Physical Education award presented to schools. Visit Physical & Health Education Canada for more details.

Copyright © 2009 March Academy