Distillery District, by Leah (Grade 8)
V.I.S….
- delivers challenging academics in small classes;
- is the perfect balance of learning and teaching approaches intended to reach the “head” as well as the “heart” of each learner;
- places importance on higher order skills such as critical and analytical thinking, problem solving, cooperation, time-management and organization;
- encourages critical thinking through diverse perspectives;
- explores the meaning of morality and ethics;
- is a safe learning environment where children can feel free from bullying and exclusion;
- is an environment of ‘rights and responsibilities’ with a strict demand for self respect, respect for others and respect for the environment;
- makes the Ontario Curriculum meaningful through the infusion and integration of personal, local and global issues;
- draws from the past, investigates the present and inspires students to envision and strive for possible and preferred futures;
- enables students to develop strong skills in all core academic subjects;
- focuses on core subjects, (i.e., Mathematics, English, French, Spanish, Global Studies, History, Health, Science, Philosophy, Physical Education, Visual Arts, Theatre, Dance, Music, and Life Skills), while also providing cross-curricular integration to help students make vital connections;
- encompasses a balance of learner-centered approaches as well as teacher-directed lessons;
- embraces teacher-directed evaluation and expects self-evaluation and self-reflection from each student;
- provides learners with opportunities to work independently as well as cooperatively;
- offers a strong sports program and an innovative visual, music and performing arts curriculum;
- Note: VIS’ integrative model of education is inclusive and respects the unique story behind each child. We foster a welcoming environment for children to grow into their own. What we do not do, is tell our students ‘what’ to think in relation to controversial social/political issues, and/or engage in topics best addressed in the home by their parents/guardians.