Autism Resource Program

The Autism Resource Centre (ARC) is a Secondary program to support students diagnosed with high functioning autism. The focus of the program is to support students during the school day through social skills training and executive functioning or organizational skills.

Students have an 8 block timetable with 1-2 blocks together as a group participating in the social skills training program. Each students’ course load will be determined through an IEP process.

Although the ARC program will support student in a integrated setting, the primary focus is to build success through the development of these skills, and in turn, provide a smooth transition to high school. Moreover, the aim is to provide a manageable plan for academic independence.

STUDENT PROFILE

Students appropriate for  placement in this program when they:

• have average or above cognitive scores with significant scatter

• are able to attend classes with minimal support

• are able to work independently during parts of the day in a classroom setting

• have independent life skills

• meet academic expectations, at least minimally, with adaptations and support

• require social skills development

• may exhibit behaviour related to their high level of anxiety

SELECTION OF STUDENTS

Referrals for ARC must come to the Screening Committee.

DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED

□ referral to screening form

□ documentation supporting autism diagnosis

□ Individual Education Plan (IEP)

□ School Based Team minutes

EXIT CRITERIA

Students are reviewed on a regular basis and if a change in placement is recommended a referral is submitted to the Screening Committee

Placement in a regular classroom in recommended when students have developed compensatory skills to a level which will allow them to function successfully 

CAPACITY AND STAFFING

Program capacity is 12 students

1 Teacher

4 SSAs

PROGRAM LOCATION

Churchill Secondary      

David Thompson Secondary