About Edelweiss Private Academy
Edelweiss Private Academy is a private school that serves the needs of exceptional learners. At EPA, we use the principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis and token economies to help our learners reach their academic, social-emotional and behavioural potential. EPA is designed as a transition school with the goal that students can then move forward to a mainstream school and larger populated classrooms.
Our classes maintain low pupil - teacher ratios so that we can better meet the needs of our learners. Our school is recognized and listed as an accredited private school in Ontario and our teaching staff (Grades 1-8) are certified by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCTs). We teach the Ministry of Education curriculum in all subject areas. Our school hours are 9:00 am to 3:30 pm and we offer both before care and after school programs for an additional cost. Our school has a Transition Class, Grades 1-8, an Applied Primary Class and a Junior/Intermediate Applied Class ( Life Skills).
Our school is ideal for students who are experiencing difficulty in mainstream schools. We have experience working with students with various exceptionalities including Behavioural, Communication (Autism, Language Impairment, etc.), Intellectual (including Gifted) and Multiple (any combination of exceptionalities). EPA provides children with a safe and supportive environment, where they can reach their full academic and behavioural potential.
About the Edelweiss Flower
Edelweiss is a well known European mountain flower. It is a difficult flower to acquire as it grows at the top of remote mountain areas. It has been used as a symbol of bravery, of the rugged purity of alpinism, and as a national symbol. According to folk traditions, giving this flower to a loved one is a promise of dedication.
At Edelweiss Private Academy we recognize that our students might have obstacles preventing them from achieving their goals. However, with encouragement, guidance and perseverance, our students prove that they are strong and can overcome the largest of obstacles.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide each student with access to the provincial curriculum by using evidence based Direct Instruction programs. We promote the learning of key academic skills and provide our students with the tools they need to reach their full potential. We strive to enrich our students’ lives through social integration, physical wellness and emotional nourishment, thus encouraging them to reach independence and long term success.
Value Education
Value Education plays an important role in child development. Value Education helps students develop a positive view of life and grow into good citizens who are responsible, respectful, caring and understanding. At Edelweiss Private Academy our core values are:
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Respect – for self, others, and the environment. At EPA students learn that kindness matters!
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Responsibility – students learn to take responsibility for their personal belongings, their studies, and their choices
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Collaboration – students learn to work together as a community of learners, and they learn the importance of helping others in need
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Persistence – students learn to persevere when faced with a challenge and to continue to always try their best
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Inclusivity – students learn to understand and celebrate our differences
Quick Facts
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Established in 2007 - EPA started as one classroom and has expanded to six classrooms.
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Junior/Intermediate Applied Class (Life Skills) prepares students for independent living.
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All EPA teachers ( Grades 1 - 8) are OCT certified and all staff use Applied Behaviour Analysis strategies.
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All EPA students are provided with their own iPad for use at school.
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EPA students enjoy weekly swimming at the JCC pools as well as weekly pizza days.
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At EPA, learning happens all the time, in and out of the classroom.