Interactions Programming

Interactions programming supports students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD impacts how people understand what they see, hear and sense. This lifelong disability can result in difficulties in communication, social relationships, behaviour or learning. Although some students with ASD achieve at grade level, many have uneven or delayed achievement.

• Interactions General Information Video

• Interactions Information Video for Jr and Sr. High

To be eligible for programming, students must be:

• 5 ½ to 19 years old on September 1

• Clinically diagnosed with ASD

• Demonstrating stereotyped behaviours, and have severe impairment in social interactions and communication

• Contact Ms. Lindsay Babiuk for information about eligibility and special education programming options.

Our Dr. Anne Anderson students enrolled in special education programming will receive instruction determined by Alberta Education, as well as specialized supports based on their needs and abilities. Our new Interactions classroom has access to new technologies, recreational amenities and a full kitchen.

PROGRAM DELIVERY

• Structured environment with regular routines

• Smaller classes for more targeted instruction

• Visual aids, concrete examples and hands-on activities

• Frequent praise and other meaningful rewards to help students adopt positive behaviours and attitudes

• Opportunities to join other classes for integrated instruction in a student’s areas of strength

Students attending our Interactions program have a warm, welcoming, inclusive and healthy space to learn and socialize. Students benefit extensively from daily access to recreational facilities within the Dr. Anne Anderson Community Centre, in addition to access to specialized classrooms (e.g.,/Culinary kitchen, Foods kitchen within the Interactions classroom, Visual Arts Studio, Indigeneous tipi, outdoor amphitheatre, etc).

Each student benefits from individualized programming and a structured routine and predictable schedule. Students have a homeroom teacher and educational assistant who works with them throughout the day; however, our students interact with and enjoy learning alongside other school members (such as students, other teachers, volunteers, guest presenters, etc).

Instruction focuses on foundational life, literacy and numeracy skills. Students benefit from visual aids, sensory regulation tools, concrete examples, experiential learning, adaptive technologies, and hands on learning. Additionally, we focus on modelling and directly teaching social behaviour and communication skills. As we engage in learning, students will develop relationships and friendships with others. Our students participate fully in school-wide spirit events, Agora Days, guest presentations, and other excursions.

At Dr. Anne Anderson High School, we welcome each and every child with a growth mindset. We know that each child comes to us with unlimited potential and we work alongside families, specialists, and others to ensure our students grow, learn, and enjoy themselves while in high school and as we ready them for future opportunities.

All Edmonton Public Schools programming is based on curriculum determined by Alberta Education. Students enrolled in Interactions will receive the same high-quality education offered in all of our programs.

GOAL

• Improve communication, social interaction and behaviour while developing academic skills

BENEFITS

• Demonstrate growth in communication skills

• Demonstrate growth in building and maintaining relationships, and understanding social situations

• Demonstrate growth in managing frustration and problem-solving

• Improved ability to handle change or challenging emotions (e.g., anxiety)

• Development of life skills to support independent living and employment

Students diagnosed on the autism spectrum are at different places on that spectrum. This means the Interactions program is adaptable to the needs of each student.

Students enrolled in Interactions will receive the same high-quality education offered in all of our programs. School staff, in collaboration with students’ families (and, when appropriate, counsellors and other third-party professionals), set goals toward independence, which often leads to learning opportunities outside the Interactions classroom. These opportunities are considered when it is in the best interest of the student and take the student's strengths and needs into account.

Programming is based on curriculum determined by Alberta Education that are modified or adapted for students. Opportunities are available to join other classes for instruction in a student’s areas of strength and when the student is ready. Inclusion opportunities may include whole school events, as well as peer role models and other classroom experiences (e.g., phys. ed).