Centennial Academy in Montreal helps young people with learning difficulties by providing a work environment tailored to their needs to ensure they earn a high school diploma.
Over five years, 80% of Centennial Academy students graduate from high school, compared to 40% in similar programs in the public sector.
The private school offers programs in French and English for students with special needs. Although the school is appropriate for youth with learning disabilities, they must complete ministry exams just like regular programs.
“We believe in a universal design of learning, but it must be a student who is capable of graduating,” notes Marco Plumeri, assistant director of Centennial Academy.
Teachers adapt to different student profiles to ensure everyone's success. “Knowing that I have a student on the autism spectrum or dyslexic, I incorporate all of these specific profiles to ensure the success of my class and plan my materials accordingly,” says Laura Grimaud.
Places are dedicated to students' specific needs to ensure their academic success. They can return to a recovery room or a wellness room with a caregiver at any time to reduce stimulation. “They can raise their hand and say they're not feeling well right now. We have strategies to help the student get better and get back to their day,” the author continues.
Centennial Academy receives government funding for the English program, which is not the case for the French program.
French-speaking families pay $22,000 annually in tuition, with no possibility of scholarships.
“If we get grants, we can get more scholarships for the French-speaking sector,” concludes Angela Burgos, general director of the Centennial Academy.
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