Program Description

The Excellence in Social Emotional Learning (ExSEL) program provides an integrated and supportive classroom setting for one year for students who require intensive support in Social Emotional Learning and Executive Functioning. Instruction is differentiated and personalized to meet the unique learning profiles of each student with a focus on the Core Competencies.

The ExSEL program is in session from mid-September to mid-March Monday, Tuesday, Thrusday and Friday from 9am-3pm and on Wednesdays, from 9:00am-Noon only.  Classes are not in session Wednesday afternoons. At the end of March till the end of June, students return to their mainstream classroom full-time with program staff supporting them on a rotational basis.

Student Profile

• display social-emotional difficulties which meet the Ministry criteria for students requiring Moderate Behaviour Support (R), students requiring Intensive Behaviour Support (H), and students requiring support for a Chronic Health Impairment (D), (*Students with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (G) may also be considered)
• demonstrate significant challenges in the Core Competencies
• evidence of Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions have been implemented consistently at the school level

Referral Process

All applications to the program must be submitted to the District Case Manager, Behaviour.  The package should include:

• Request for Designation &/or Special Education Program Placement form
• Pre-Referral Intervention Strategies (PRIS) form
• Individual Education Plan (IEP)
• Positive Behaviour Support Plan
• School-Based Team minutes
• DESSA mini assessment
• other reports/assessments: as appropriate.

Placement Evaluation

Student placement is reviewed every spring with the goal of returning students to their home schools. A transition plan between the ExSEL program staff and the receiving school is developed.

Capacity and Staffing

Grades 4-7

10 students

1 Teacher, 1 SSA and 1 SSB

Program Locations

Beaconsfield Elementary

Franklin Elementary