2021/2022 Adaptive Learning Program
Acceptance letters for the 2021/2022 school year will be emailed no later than May 6. If you completed the intake process prior to April 1, 2021 and don’t receive an email, or if you would like to be on a waiting list for September 2021, please email alison.trusty@ocdsb.ca. We will update this page as details are finalized.
About Adaptive Learning
The Adaptive Learning Program is for adults with physical and developmental disabilities who want to prepare for independence, competitive employment or volunteer work in the community. Students participate in on-site work settings to gain job skills, in addition to transferable essential skills. Possible work sites include the coffee shop, resource/copy room, greenhouse and thrift store. Students may then make a transition to an employment support program in the community.
Who is eligible for the program?
Adults age 21 or older with developmental disabilities who are:
- Able to demonstrate a high level of independence
- Able to spend lunch and break times without supervision
- Able to set and work toward specific goals
- Able to attend classes four days per week
- Willing to work or volunteer in the community
- Able to follow routines and directions
- Able to work in a variety of environments, with different people
- Have the support of family and caregivers in finding employment or volunteer positions
What will students learn?
Students learn both the transferable and targeted skills needed to prepare for employment.
Transferable skills are those that will help them in any job, such as:
- Gaining self-confidence, problem solving and self-management
- Understanding workplace culture and expectations
- Knowing labour laws and rights
- Working as part of a team and working alone
- Using strategies for handling conflict and stress
- Prioritizing and organizing tasks
Targeted skills are specific to various workplace environments. Examples include:
- Preparation for Food Services Settings
- Preparation for Office and Library Settings
- Preparation for Plant Care and Maintenance Settings