In STEPS, the Learning Team works together to provide programming to support diverse student needs.
Parents
Parents and families are an important part of the STEPS program. When parents are meaningfully involved, students are more likely to demonstrate learning across a multitude of environments and there is an increase of authentic generalization of knowledge and skills.
School Administrator
The school administration share responsibility for supervision of STEPS programs with the Director of Inclusive Learning. The administration evaluate the performance of teacher and specialized support assistants.
School Counsellor/Inclusive Learning Facilitator
The school counsellor makes arrangements for the administration of specialized assessments as required. In addition, arranges and is a supportive agent with community agencies.
Program Teacher
Program teacher plans, implements, and evaluates student programming and progress. The teacher keeps records, and referrals for support services. The teacher communicates to parents and is directly responsible to principal or designate.
Educational Assistants (EA)
In all STEPS programs, EAs:
- work independently implementing assigned programming with individuals or small groups of students under direction of teacher
- accompany students when participating in another class
- help to create a calm and engaging classroom environment by following classroom behavior and learning plans.
- assist students in personal care and hygiene
- administer medication as required under the direction of the teacher
- supervise students during breaks, bus pick up and drop off, lunchtime and on community outings including recreational and occupational experiences
- operate specialized equipment and technology to support student instruction
- assist with lifting and transferring as required
- participate in staff development and training opportunities
Consultative Services:
Student in the STEPS program may have access to the following consultation services:
Assistive Technology Supports and Services
The EIPS Assistive Technology Team (ATT) is a multi-disciplinary team consisting of a speech-language pathologist, assistive technologist and education consultant. Depending on the needs of the student, an occupational therapist may also be part of the team the ATT supports students in the following manner:
- consultation, assessment and evaluation of assistive technology tools and strategies
- consultation, assessment and evaluation of communication needs
- lending library of assistive technology tools (devices, software, etc)
- support and training for classroom staff and families
- strategies for classroom implementation
Occupational/Physical Therapists
Students in the STEPS Program may be referred by their classroom teacher for occupational and/or physical therapy.
Each therapist looks at strengths and challenges of the child and explores ways that tasks are made less challenging by changing the methodology or adapting the environment. Occupational and physical therapists are a vital link between schools and the medical community for students with physical disabilities, autism, or delayed development.
Supports for Students Consultants
The consultants are an integral part of the learning team for that school. They take an active role in working together with principals, counsellors and school staff to ensure students with disabilities have access to the support services they require.
Additional Consultative Services
Depending on the needs of the student other consultative services may be provided in the STEPS programs. These may include services for the visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing or a registered psychologist to administer psycho-educational assessments. Individual referral and consent forms are required.