To promote equal opportunity and help every student reach their full potential, Quebec schools offer special support to children who need it. There are several different educational paths available to ensure that all students have a positive learning experience and succeed in school.
An alternative educational pathway may be offered to preschool, elementary, or high school students who have any of the following:
The specialized classes, all led by remedial teachers trained in special education, are offered in Quebec schools to meet the specific needs of these children.
Before considering a different educational path, schools make every effort to keep students in regular classes. This can include measures such as using pedagogical flexibility, making adaptations, or having specialized staff in the classroom.
Designed for students with severe dysphasia (a disorder that affects language development), communication classes provide a learning environment adapted to the kids’ needs where the teacher can do the following:
To learn more about dysphasia, read our article on the subject.
Language classes are primarily for children with dyslexia, dysorthography, or a mixed disorder (associated with dysphasia, for example). In this type of specialized class, interventions are adapted to the needs and learning pace of each student. In addition to providing individualized instruction, the teacher encourages the students to do the following:
It’s important to note that some schools combine their language and communication classes.
Children with a pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) face a variety of challenges related to communication and social interaction on a daily basis. To help them progress and reach their full potential, special classes typically offer the following:
Behavioural disorder (BD) classes are for students who, despite the implementation of an individualized education plan, have trouble with social interaction or managing their emotions. Classes are designed to provide the support they need and help them make progress. Features can include the following:
Learning difficulty (LD) classes use teaching methods adapted to the pace of the students. They also encourage the use of strategies and tools to promote learning. In these small groups, efforts are focused on helping the kids improve in certain areas:
There are several other types of specialized classes, and many possible paths. If you want to learn more about this topic and the options available to your child, we recommend contacting the team at your child’s school.
Writing : Alloprof Parents' team
Scientific review : Mireille Moisan, guidance counsellor et Marilène Prévost, remedial teacher