ARC (Autism Resource Centre)

Overview – Grades 8 –12

The ARC (Autism Resource Centre) program provides targeted academic and social support for high school students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Designed for students in grades 8 through 12, ARC offers a structured environment that supports both integration into mainstream classes and the development of essential life skills. The program meets each student where they are, helping them work toward greater independence, academic achievement, and social confidence.

Some students may focus on building friendships and navigating social settings, while others may receive more intensive support in communication, organization, or classroom engagement. Staff members often act as guides and interpreters, helping students understand and respond to the complexities of social interactions.

Program Structure and Daily Schedule

The ARC program supports up to 15 students across grades 8 to 12. Each student’s schedule is personalized, with a blend of integrated academic classes and time in the ARC centre. Support is provided by SSAs (School and Student Support Assistants) who work closely with students both in-class and within the resource centre.

Students typically:

Enroll in 6 integrated classes (e.g., Math, English, Science, Social Studies, PE).

Spend 1 block per day in ARC for social skills training, academic support, or organizational coaching.

Depending on their needs, some students attend most classes independently, while others receive full-time support. As students progress, ARC staff work to gradually reduce support and foster independence in both academic and social settings.

By grades 11–12, students are encouraged to follow a primarily mainstream schedule, using the ARC centre as a drop-in resource.

Collaboration With Teachers and Staff

The ARC team works closely with classroom teachers to ensure curriculum is accessible and appropriate for each student. This includes:

Sharing best practices for supporting students with ASD.

Adapting instructional methods and classroom routines.

Helping manage challenging behaviors in a constructive, respectful way.

In-class support is available and gradually reduced as students gain confidence and independence. ARC staff also help monitor student progress and adjust strategies as needed.

Working With Families and the Community

Consistent communication with families is a cornerstone of ARC’s approach. Parents/guardians are regularly updated on student progress through email or phone, typically on a weekly or daily basis depending on need.

Family participation is encouraged in:

IEP meetings.

Annual goal-setting sessions.

Transition planning throughout high school.

Program Goals

1. Independence and Organization

Students enter ARC with a range of support needs. The goal is to foster independence in managing school responsibilities and daily routines. As students advance through high school, ARC helps them build the skills needed to self-regulate, organize their time, and seek help when needed.

2. Social and Communication Skills

Students are supported in developing meaningful peer relationships and feeling confident in social environments. Communication goals include self-advocacy, using respectful language, and resolving misunderstandings calmly.

3. Academic Growth

Every student is encouraged to achieve personal academic success. ARC promotes steady progress through individualized support, helping students discover their strengths, interests, and goals for life beyond high school.

Admission Criteria

Students must meet the *Ministry of Education’s special needs designation criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (G)**.

Referral Process for Grade 8 Students Entering Grade 9

The School-Based Team (SBT) identifies suitable students and initiates the referral process.

Required documentation must be submitted by February 2025 to:

Marianna Karkouch, Area Case Manager – Learning Services

RE: ARC Program Screening

Garibaldi Elementary

1025 Slocan St, Vancouver

Placement decisions will be communicated to school administration in Spring 2025 (March/April).

For questions about students with high-incidence needs or ARC program eligibility, please contact Marianna Karkouch at mkarkouch@vsb.bc.ca. This includes referrals for current Grade 8 students entering Grade 9.

Required Documentation

Triplicate “Request for Designation and/or Special Education Program Placement” form (not required for applicants from non-VSB schools).

Psycho-educational assessment.

Current Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Recent report cards.

Any other relevant assessments or supporting documentation.