Over the past decade, the special education department at North Island Distance Education School (NIDES) has offered exceptional opportunities for students with diverse needs, including chronic health, mental health, autism, and intellectual, physical, or learning disabilities.
With a committed team of special education teachers and skilled education assistants, students thrive in the blended learning environment at NIDES with personalized support on site, at home, and during weekly Interaction Days (I Class).
Given the opportunity to learn in their own way and at their own pace, students go on to achieve academic success and greater independence.
“Blended learning — the combination of distance and interactive classroom instruction — is the right choice for many learners who have unique lifestyles and learning needs,” said Jeff Stewart, principal of NIDES. “We are proud to say that because of this approach, many of our students start at NIDES in their elementary years and stay on to achieve outstanding results right through to high school graduation.”
Peter Wizinsky, a recent high school graduate from the NIDES special education program, was presented with the Governor General’s Award for Academic Excellence just last month. According to his family, much of Wizinsky’s academic success is thanks to the flexible and supportive program at NIDES.
“We strongly believe that support and encouragement in all environments are crucial to our students’ success,” Stewart continues. “We’re thrilled with the active role parents take in the program. It’s that team approach that really makes the difference.”
The special education department at NIDES accepts new registrations year round, from students all over Vancouver Island. For more information, contact the registration office toll free at 1-800-663-7925.
— North Island Distance Education School