2 Wembley Road, Toronto, Ontario, M6C 2E9, Canada
451 Ellesmere Road, Scarborough - Toronto, Ontario, M1R 4E5, Canada
Indirect Support:
2 Wembley Road, Toronto, Ontario, M6C 2E9, Canada
451 Ellesmere Road, Scarborough - Toronto, Ontario, M1R 4E5, Canada
2014
2000
45
240
Preschool to 6
JK to 8
Coed
Coed
Day
Day
English
English
Academic
Academic
Montessori, Waldorf
Traditional
10 to 16
16 to 24
Learning, Developmental, Behavioral
In-class adaptations
In-class adaptations
$10,000 to $16,500
$9,050
No
No
0%
0%
None
None
$0
$0
5
22
0%
0%
95%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Mar 30, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 3
Yes: grades JK - 2
No
No
information not available
information not available
Julia Simon founded Alive Montessori in 2001, and she remains very much the head and hands of the school today. She established the school as a means of delivering the Montessori principles, prime among them being the provision of a family-like atmosphere in which to learn. Families who enroll here are drawn to the small size of the school, allowing students to gain a heightened sense of their place within the life of the school. Instruction is personal, with pacing cues taken from the individual students, and a close attention to the talents, perspectives, and interests that they bring with them to the school each day. Students are encouraged to have a voice, and to use it in their daily lives. Numeracy and literacy are important, though passion is, too, something that Simon has rightly built the Alive program around.
View full reportCharacter development and academic excellence go hand in hand at Sathya Sai School. The Ontario curriculum is integrated with the values of truth, right conduct, peace, love, and non-violence. Holistic development is a major focus: yoga, prayer, and activities that teach calmness and concentration are regularly provided. Kids thrive in an environment of ample support and compassion delivered by school staff and volunteers in partnership with a parental commitment to those same values. Sathya Sai School offers a huge range of extracurriculars and clubs, as well as service projects which help build key traits and skills such as leadership and responsibility. Kids graduate with a sensitivity to the needs of others and a strong ethical framework as well as impressive academic credentials.
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"They make learning fun and cater to what interests him while focusing on the core fundamentals..."
Emily Flores - Parent (Mar 02, 2020)
Before we came to Alive Montessori & Private School, my son disliked school. He dreaded every mornin...
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"Located one short block north of Eglinton at Bathurst. PRE-SCHOOL TO GRADE 6. Children get off to a very fast start to their education in a safe, family-like environment. Early reading at ages 3, 4 and 5 develops into fluency at a young age with our extremely effective reading program. Very strong emphasis on the Basics of Reading, Writing and Math to give a solid grounding for all other learning. Watch your child's confidence grow as he or she demonstrates competence and ability. FASTER LEARNING – MADE FUN!"
"The Sathya Sai School is training future leaders in our community. We offer the Ministry of Ontario Curriculum integrated with a Human Values-based character education program for students from JK to Grade 8. We are a non-profit, independent school of 240 students. The school's curriculum is structured around the five universal Human Values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-violence. This focus on Human Values has led us to be ranked a #1 elementary school in Ontario by the Fraser Institute since 2006."
"> Every child is a unique individual deserving of the best education possible.
> Every child has an innate desire to learn that must be cultivated, not blunted.
> Every child has his or her natural interests and strengths.
> Learning occurs at varying rates and every child learns at his or her own optimum pace.
> The goal of education is to give every child the tools to become self-reliant and successful in life.
> Done properly, learning is fun."
"The Sathya Sai School is founded on the universal ideals of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-violence. These values are inherent in each child. Our goal is to nurture these values to achieve excellence. The Sathya Sai Education in Human Values program awakens intuition and consciousness. This brings about transformation of one’s character. We provide students with an environment that helps them gain confidence to become good, intelligent and socially responsible citizens."
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"For our parents Alive is more than education. Our school means family and means trust and a whole new understanding what it means to feel safe and loved.
They choose our school because it is small and welcoming place where every child is appreciated and feels a sense of belonging. In the end of the day, children do not want to go home and arrive each morning with a smile. The hands-one learning and qualified staff are major factors that contribute to our student's success."
"Families choose the Sathya Sai School because of its highly rated academic programs and integration of character education. Families regularly comment on their child's awareness of social issues and social responsibilities. Many parents have noted that their child's behaviour at home and in the community have been recognized as exemplary. While reaching toward their highest potential, they have also changed the lives of people around them with their compassion, self-discipline and wisdom."
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"Our school has Speciality Classes almost on a daily basis during the normal school hours.
From piano classes to gym classes, to drama and dance classes, we have a wide range of activities."
"Meditation/Silent Sitting. Parents report that their children continued to engage in silent sitting/meditation at home, even after graduating from the school. There were observable improvements in their children's behaviour - they were calmer and able to handle stress better. Meditation and silent sitting have had a long-term impact on their performance in higher grades."
"We treat each child as an individual and families often get surprised that we know each other on a personal level. We truly care about every single child that steps through the door. We are a very small school community of 50 students in total, going from Preschool to Elementary, which allows us to give our students the attention and guidance to help them reach their full potential."
"Sathya Sai School students love coming to school. When they are ill and cannot attend, they feel sad to have to miss even one day of school. A student who joined in grade 7 had been bullied at his previous school and did not want to attend school. After joining the Sathya Sai School, he was jumping out bed early in the morning and could not wait to come to school to learn and share with his friends. Many families appreciate the fact that their child has introduced meditation to them."
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At Alive Montessori & Private School our mission is based on the following premises:
• The word “educate” comes from Latin roots meaning “to lead out”. As such, we believe that it is our duty as educators to bring out the innate skills and talents of the children in our charge.
• Every child is a unique individual deserving of the best education possible.
• Every child has an innate desire to learn that must be cultivated, not blunted.
• Every child has his or her natural interests and strengths.
• Learning occurs at varying rates and every child learns at his or her own optimum pace.
• The Basics of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic are vitally important as these still form the foundation for all future learning.
• The goal of education is to give every child the tools he or she will need to become self-reliant and successful in life.
• Education does not have to be a dreary and dull activity. Done properly, learning is fun.
Our goal at Alive Montessori & Private School is to provide the best possible start to our children through proper education, thereby instilling a life-long love of learning in every child. We aim to create a safe, caring and fun environment where every child will learn and will become more and more confident as he or she gains in abilities.
Julia Simon
(Principal)
Welcome to Sathya Sai School, a non-denominational, unique elementary school (JK-Gr.8) that integrates character development with academic excellence. The result has been the blossoming of human excellence through self-transformation in hundreds of students.
The universal human values, namely Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Nonviolence and the five teaching techniques – Universal Prayers, Silent Sitting, Story Telling, Group Singing and Group Activities - help develop a child holistically. Our faculty members strive to be exemplars of human values.
At Sathya Sai School of Toronto-Canada, the advanced academic programme is balanced with Daily Prayers, Meditation, Yoga, Music, Choir and Band, Physical Education, team sports, leadership and extracurricular activities. Service activities (local, national and international) are integral to the school culture.
The harmonious trilateral partnership between parents, teachers and volunteers ensures a child’s physical, social, emotional, intellectual and spiritual well-being. The parents must attend "Dynamic Parenting" classes to understand human values and inculcate the same in their children.
The universal human values, which underlie all the learning at our school, have resulted in a high level of academic achievement in our students, together with a sensitive awareness of the needs of others. This has made them welcome additions to the high schools, universities, and workplaces of their choice, where they shine as examples to others through their diligence, ethical conduct and sense of community service.
Please visit our website to learn more about our school programs.
Sincerely,
Revathi Chennabathni
Traditional
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Particularly popular in the younger grades (preschool to elementary), but sometimes available all the way up to high school, Montessori schools offer an alternative vision to the standard lesson format of most classrooms. Instead of listening to whole-class lessons, Montessori classrooms allow students to choose which "tasks" or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles - their essential feature being they contain a right answer and allow for selfcorrection. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on lessons being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with students developing a sense of self-sufficiency, confidence and curiosity.
Traditional curricula tend to be very content-based and rooted in the core disciplines. It is a structured approach that involves the teacher delivering a unified curriculum through direct instruction. Students usually learn by observing and listening to their teacher, studying facts and concepts in textbooks, and completing both tests and written assignments - which challenge students to not only demonstrate their mastery of content but their ability to analyze and deconstruct it critically. Class discussions are also used to create critical dialogue around the content of the curriculum.
Waldorf schools are available from preschool to Grade 12, though they are most popular at the younger ages. Waldorf schools are unmistakably "progressive". Rudolf Steiner, their intellectual forefather, believed the educator's first task should be to help students develop an aesthetic appreciation for life and learning. Sometimes incorrectly conflated with Montessori schools, Waldorf schools focus on developing the "whole child" - emphasizing collaborative, hands-on learning, along with the arts and music, which are integrated into other areas of study.
Not applicable
The Montessori method provides hands-on learning in a stimulating school environment that enables children to learn more quickly and thoroughly. With far more interesting material than a traditional classroom, children are allowed much more opportunity to explore and develop their own interests and abilities. Learning occurs at their own pace in small classrooms and is geared towards developing competence – and thus, confidence. The mixed age groupings encourage children to cooperate with and help each other, while enabling the older children to learn responsibility and leadership.
The essence of the Sathya Sai School lives in our five universal human values of Peace, Love, Non-Violence, Right Conduct, and Truth. It permeates all that we do by balancing character with academic excellence. Student voice and choice are embedded in the school environment so that students become active partners in the learning process. We encourage students to engage with the materials, promote collaboration, and encourage self-reflection to evaluate their learning. Learning is implemented through science fair projects, role plays, public speaking events, and service-learning assignments that run through all grades. Through hands-on methods, students inquire and draw meaningful conclusions. We are also committed to building a 21st-century skill-set critical to student success. Digital literacy begins early in primary grades, and students learn digital ethics. French also starts early in the primary grades. Teachers gather evidence of learning from various sources (triangulation of data) that accurately reflect how students work towards expectations. Assessment as of and for learning also plays a critical role in improving student achievement.
Equal Balance
Traditional Math typically teaches a method or algorithm FIRST, and THEN teaches the applications for the method. Traditional algorithms are emphasized and practiced regularly: repetition and drills are frequently used to ensure foundational mastery in the underlying mathematical procedures. The traditional approach to math views math education as akin to building a logical edifice: each brick depends on the support of the previously laid ones, which represent mastery over a particular procedure or method. Traditional Math begins by giving students a tool, and then challenges students to practice using that tool an applied way, with progressively challenging problems. In this sense Traditional Math aims to establish procedural understanding before conceptual and applied understanding.
These math programs feature an equal balance of “Traditional” and “Discovery” methods.
The Montessori program uses lots of hands-on material such as counting beads, wooden rods, geometric shapes, and other objects children can handle to make mathematical concepts real and develop the child's understanding. After the concepts are fully understood, drilling and practice are done on the basics to achieve competence.
Since each student in a mathematics classroom has a unique identity and readiness to learn new concepts and skills, learning begins with a focus on fundamental concepts and foundational skills, delivered through carefully planned direct instruction using a variety of platforms. Our resources include textbooks/workbooks, Jump Math, Mathletics, and websites such as IXL, Prodigy, SplashLearn, and manipulatives. Following that, problem-solving tasks are assigned to introduce, clarify, or apply the concept and skills learned using strategies which are then enhanced further by contests such as Gauss and Spirit of Math. This balanced pedagogy engages students and allows them to demonstrate their learning by representing, connecting, and justifying their thoughts as they find relevance in what they learn. Teachers also raise awareness of math-related careers by exploring real-world applications and providing opportunities for career-related project work, such as a business fair, where students can learn financial literacy and become budding entrepreneurs.
We expect our students to become very competent in performing math in their heads or on paper before we introduce calculators. This has the added benefits of developing mental discipline and confidence in their own abilities to solve problems.
Balanced Literacy
Systematic-phonics programs teach young children to read by helping them to recognize and sound out the letters and syllables of words. Students are then led to blend these sounds together to sound out and recognize the whole word. While other reading programs might touch on phonetics (either incidentally or on a “when needed” basis), systematic phonics teaches phonics in a specific sequence, and uses extensive repetition and direct instruction to help readers associate specific letter patterns with their associated sounds.
Balanced reading programs are typically Whole Language programs with supplementary phonics training. This training might be incidental, or it might take the form of mini-lessons.
Maria Montessori believed that the ideal age to teach children to read is between 4 and 6. Using her materials (sandpaper letters, moveable alphabet, metal templates), we consistently have children reading at age 4 (some as young as 3)
At Sathya Sai School, we aim to ensure that our students become proficient, thoughtful readers and writers, who can think critically and communicate confidently and purposefully. To achieve these goals, we follow the balanced literacy approach to teaching language. Teachers engage students through read-aloud, modeling reading, thinking, and comprehension strategies. This enables students to see what good reading looks like and it initiates many habits of the mind necessary for proficient readers. Our classroom libraries provide students with leveled books that cater to the different interests of our young readers. Book talks, guided reading, reading buddies, book clubs, and annual book fairs are some of our successful reading programs and events that get our children excited about reading. Upper grades move to analyses of writing structures and archetypes connections.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
The goal is that child will eventually be able to read as easily as to listen to a conversation.
DIBELS Testing: This school periodically uses DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
Equal balance
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Programs that balance systematic and process approaches equally likely have an emphasis on giving young students ample opportunities to write, while providing supplementary class-wide instruction in grammar, parts of sentences, and various writing strategies.
Maria Montessori wrote, "Contrary to the usually accepted idea, writing precedes reading." This is because the child must re-create something to be able to understand it. Thus she developed a very strong program for writing, utilizing sandpaper letters, metal templates, and drills to complement her reading program. We develop the child's ability first, to print, and then to be able to do cursive writing.
Writing is not just a matter of convenience but also a form of art to explore and express. The approach to teaching writing is also similar to reading. The teacher prepares, facilitates, guides, and models students--leading them to independence through a gradual release of responsibility. Most grades use the 6+ One Traits of Writing Model. Reflections and journal writing are aids to inculcate introspective skills. Vocabulary enrichment and phonic instructions are used to enhance reading and writing competencies as part of our balanced literacy program. Writing activities that students see as meaningful and that challenge them to think creatively about topics and concerns. Students explore various forms and styles of writing in different genres and engage in the creative process as they plan, draft, revise, and publish their work.
Equal Balance
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Science programs that balance expository and inquiry learning equally will likely have an equal blend of tests and experiments; direct, textbook-based instruction and student-centred projects.
Montessori again uses lots of hands-on materials, including flash-cards for specific branches. All of the sciences are touched upon in the early grades.
Students are provided hands-on opportunities in school or through science field trips in order to develop and refine their inquiry skills, problem-solving skills, and critical and creative thinking skills while discovering fundamental concepts through direct instruction. The activities offered enable students to Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate, promoting collaborative, active learning in which students work together to solve problems and investigate new concepts by asking questions, observing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions. Science fairs are held at the school with little guidance, allowing students to become freethinkers while they analyze how the science behind everything works. Opportunities to relate knowledge and skills to wider contexts by integrating science with other subjects motivates students to learn in a meaningful way and become lifelong learners.
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Evolution as consensus theory
Evolution as one of many equally viable theories
Evolution is not taught
Physics
Equal Balance
In traditional literature programs students focus on decoding the mechanics of texts: plot, characterization, and themes. These texts tend to include a balance of contemporary and “classic” literature. When studying a past work, students investigate its historical context -- but only insofar as this adds understanding to the work itself. Past works are therefore studied “on their own terms”, and not merely as historical artifacts to be deconstructed: traditional literature programs are firmly rooted in the humanities, and carry the belief that great literature can reveal fundamental and universal truths about the human condition. These programs emphasize class discussions and critical essay writing, and aim to develop in students critical thinking, communication skills, and a cultivated taste and ethos.
These literature programs draw in equal measure from “Traditional” and “Social Justice” programs.
With a faster start to sure and confident reading, our children naturally gravitate to stories and literature.
The study of Language and Literature in Sathya Sai School is focused on developing language skills essential to students for understanding themselves and others so that they find fulfilling careers and become responsible citizens. Students are encouraged to exercise their higher-order thinking skills to voice their perspectives as they read various forms of literature. The school uses strategies and resources that recognize and reflect diversity in the classroom and cater to the individual strengths and needs of students. Students are encouraged to connect with their own experiences as well as with the world through different lenses. Students read and analyse works of recognised, diverse writers from their own time as well as earlier eras. Thus by reading from a wide spectrum of materials they are challenged to become receptive to varying ideas and perspectives as they grow in their ability to think independently and critically.
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Ancient lit
English lit
World (non-Western) lit
European (continental) lit
American lit
Canadian lit
Expanding Communities
Usually focused on teaching history and geography at an early age, the core knowledge approach uses story, drama, reading, and discussion to teach about significant people, places, and events. Breadth of content and knowledge is emphasized. The curriculum is often organized according to the underlying logic of the content: history might be taught sequentially, for example (as students move through the grades).
The Expanding Communities approach organizes the curriculum around students’ present, everyday experience. In the younger grades, students might learn about themselves, for example. As they move through the grades, the focus gradually broadens in scope: to the family, neighbourhood, city, province, country, and globe. The curriculum tends to have less focus on history than Core Knowledge programs.
The Montessori materials are very well laid out and contain lots of pictures and activities to increase knowledge and understanding.
Social Science at the Sathya Sai School, especially for the early grades, is highly linked with the backgrounds and experiences of the local community. More traditional geography and history lessons are used at the lower grades. However, the emphasis overall is on projects about family and community histories. Social justice also plays a central role. Children learn quite a lot about the historical experiences of minority communities in Canada and are encouraged to think critically about their own communities and the roles they played.
Equal Balance
Perennialism in the humanities and social sciences emphasizes the idea of education being a kind of “conversation” between generations, and so frequently turns to “Great Works” and “Big Ideas” for teaching-content. Perennialist programs approach past works on their own terms; as if they might actually help students understand “today” better. Past works are not viewed as mere historical artifacts, but as gateways to a deeper understanding of the human condition. History (and, by extension, the humanities in general) therefore plays a large role in perennialist curriculums, though social sciences like economics, psychology, and sociology can still be taught. There is a strong Liberal Arts bent to perennialist programs. The key goals are to develop critical thinking, a strong foundation of core knowledge (or “cultural literacy”), and persuasion skills through informed debate and extensive practice in essay writing.
These programs represent an equal balance between the perennialist and pragmatic approach to teaching the humanities and social sciences.
In a multi-cultural society like Canada, it is important to have a broad view of the different cultures, including a world view of history and geography. We also engage the students by examining and participating in different cultural events and holidays to explore music, folklore and art.
Humanities and social sciences in the Sathya Sai School provide a vehicle for our moral philosophy of universal human values. History and geography are used to examine past and current social and moral issues in the world which are then linked back to our understanding of universal human values. More traditional geography and history lessons are used at the Junior and Intermediate levels, focusing on the development of Confederation, settlers, and their impact on Indigenous communities. In geography at the higher levels, the focus is on World Human Patterns and Economic Systems and Immigration with an emphasis on Canada. However, the emphasis overall is on projects about family and community histories. Social justice also plays a central role. Children learn quite a lot about the historical experiences of minority communities in Canada and are encouraged to think critically about their own communities and the roles they play.
Communicative
The communicative method of language acquisition emphasizes the use of the target language in authentic contexts. The approach commonly features interactive group work, games, authentic texts, and opportunities to learn about the cultural background of the language. Drills and quizzes may still be used, but less frequently than with the audio-lingual method.
Although not offered as a subject of study, Hungarian is my native language and we have had Hungarian-speaking children in our school.
At Sathya Sai School, the teaching of Core French begins from Junior Kindergarten (JK). Our students are introduced to the fundamentals of the French language through recitations, poems, songs, dialogues, and other modes of communication. French is taught once a week from JK to Grade 3. However, it is taught everyday from Grade 4 to Grade 8, in line with the Provincial Ontario Curriculum. The students go through the four strands of learning: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The students learn a lot through various audio visual means, as well as group and individual project work. This boosts their confidence in writing, speaking or expressing themselves in the French language.
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Hebrew
ESL
Spanish
Russian
Latin
Japanese
Italian
Greek
German
French
Chinese-Mandarin
Chinese-Cantonese
Information not available
Equal Balance
Creative arts programs are studio-driven. While historical works and movements may still be taught to add context to the program, students mainly engage in making art (visual, musical, theatrical, etc). The goal is use the actual practice of art to help educate students’ emotions, cognition, and ethos.
These programs have an equal emphasis on receptive and creative learning.
Our children are doing creative activities every day, whether it is painting, drawing, sculpture, drama, dance, music, singing, story-telling, crafts, etc. We try to expose them to as many disciplines as possible and give them an understanding of basic techniques.
The Sathya Sai School offers an enriched arts education for students in music, drama, yoga, dance, digital arts and visual arts. Visual Art is taught independently as a subject and is integrated into other subjects. The school's philosophy of universal human values is embedded into Performing Arts curricula. The goals of the school are to enrich and accelerate aesthetic development; to stimulate creativity and original thinking; and to create an enduring respect and passion for learning within a climate of artistic and academic excellence.
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Acting
Dance
Drama/Theatre
Graphic Design
Music
Visual Arts
Medium integration
Computers are used in the classroom from time to time, but integrating technology into everything students do is not a dominant focus. Digital literacy is understood to be a legitimate skill in the 21st century, but not one that should distract from teaching the subject at hand, or more fundamental skills and literacies. The idea is today’s students, being “digital natives”, are likely exposed to computers and new media enough outside the classroom: the role of the school, rather, should be to develop competencies that may otherwise get missed.
Effort is made to integrate the development of digital literacy through the curriculum. However, this is not a dominant focus.
We believe strongly that computers should not replace the training and disciplining of the mind required to fully master the basics of Reading, Writing and Arithmetic. It is much more important for young children to develop the spatial discernment and fine motor skills required for writing than the ability to punch letters on a keyboard. While this concept may seem quaint or “old-fashioned”, it results in children who can easily and rapidly translate these skills over into using a computer when the time comes.
Computers and technology play a fairly central role at the Sathya Sai School despite not being an explicitly "technology-focused" school. Nonetheless, coding is a central part of every grade's curriculum. Technology should be implemented into education as quickly as possible, but only when it is relevant. When nothing else works, technology can often achieve educational goals, but only when it is employed as a tool to boost learning. Students at this age require more scaffolding, but technology can help them develop higher-order thinking skills if used responsibly.
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
Web design
Robotics
Computer science
We are saddened when we see physical education programs
The Sathya Sai School's Physical Education curriculum endeavours to create a healthy mind in a healthy body alongside a good sense of fair play. Good morals and manners come first and so sportsmanship is the first priority. Students are to be strong competitors while still being fair competitors. Basketball, badminton and cricket are some of our top sports and teams either exist for them or are in the works. There is also an all-grades sports day that runs every year.
Play-based
Montessori programs aimed at preschool and Kindergarten- aged children allow young learners to choose which “tasks” or activities interest them. These tasks centre around special Montessori puzzles -- the essential features of these puzzles being they contain a “right answer” and allow for self-correction. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on learning being concrete and rooted in practical experience, along with children developing a sense of self-sufficiency and confidence. Specially trained teachers act as guides, introducing children to progressively more difficult materials when appropriate. A Montessori classroom is typically very calm and orderly, with children working alone or, sometimes, in small groups.
If you want to learn more about Montessori education, check out our comprehensive guide. You can also check out our guide to Montessori preschools, elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools.
Play-based programs are the most common type of preschool and Kindergarten, and are founded on the belief young children learn best through play. Largely open-ended and minimally structured, play-based programs aim to develop social skills and a love of attending school. “Pre-academic” skills are taught, but in a more indirect way than at, say, an Academic program: through children playing in different “stations” set up around the classroom, which children choose on their own volition. Stations often contain an indirect lesson or developmental goal. Play-based classrooms are highly social and active.
With devoted teachers, proper Montessori methods, and one-on-one instruction, we consistently teach our students to read at age 4 (many at age 3). Gaining this ability so early does wonders for a child's confidence that spills over into other subjects and activities.
We focused on teaching and learning within the four frameworks namely: Belonging and Contributing, Self-Regulation and Well Being, Demonstrating Literacy and Mathematics Behaviour, Problem Solving and Innovation. This school creates a heart culture that enables everyone to feel welcomed and belonged. Our twice-a-day Meditation and bi-weekly Yoga practices play an integral part in the student’s self-regulation and well-being. This balances their overall mental and emotional health. The children gain Mathematics and Literacy concepts through various learning experiences in a play-based inquiry method. The kindergarten teachers create opportunities for students to render service which ultimately leads to individual transformation because the school believes that a student’s holistic growth is an inspiration and contribution to society.
Standard-enriched
The main curriculum accelerates beyond the pace of the provincial one; ALL students do the work of OLDER public-school peers in tangible and measurable ways. This accelerated pace is maintained by the teachers and school, (through textbook selection, topic selection, grading, assignment standards and expectations, etc).
Broadly-speaking, the main curriculum -- like that of most schools -- paces the provincially-outlined one. This pace is steady and set by the teachers and school. The curriculum might still be enriched in various ways: covering topics more in-depth and with more vigor than the provincial one, or covering a broader selection of topics.
The Montessori method takes advantage of every child's innate desire to learn. Thus, allowing the child to learn at his or her own pace is not "slow" as some might envision. At times, it can be very fast.
We have a student-centred approach based on their learning abilities. We encourage students to think out-of-the-box, with curiosity and creativity.
Supportive
A school with a “rigorous” academic culture places a high value on academic performance, and expects their students to do the same. This does not mean the school is uncaring, unsupportive, or non-responsive -- far from it. A school can have a rigorous academic culture and still provide excellent individual support. It does mean, however, the school places a particular emphasis on performance -- seeking the best students and challenging them to the fullest extent -- relative to a normal baseline. High expectations and standards – and a challenging yet rewarding curriculum – are the common themes here. Keep in mind this classification is more relevant for the older grades: few Kindergarten classrooms, for example, would be called “rigorous”.
A school with a “supportive” academic culture focuses more on process than short-term outcomes: academic performance is a welcomed side-benefit, but not the driving focus. This does not mean the school lacks standards, or has low expectations for its students: a school can have a supportive academic culture and still light the fire of ambition in its students. It does mean, however, the school provides a less intensive culture than schools with a “rigorous” academic classification, and is focused more simply on instilling a love of learning and life-long curiosity.
Our primary focus in the early grades centres around increasing the abilities of the children to read fluently, to write coherently and well, to be skilled at arithmetic and math, and to demonstrate competence in every activity they undertake. By so doing, they gain confidence that translates into their future learning and careers.
Our foundational philosophy at the Sathya Sai School is to leave no student behind. Towards this end, our teachers ensure that all students’ academic styles and learning approaches are understood and that teaching material is delivered in a student-centred manner. We know that each student is unique, and our program is designed to help students reach their highest potential. Our teachers inspire students to be confident lifelong learners, responsible global citizens and champions of excellence.
"We intentionally avoid all forms of public distinction between students in terms of academic performance."
"We honour and distinguish our brightest students, using them as examples for other students to follow."
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
Intellectual
The goal is to cultivate "academically strong, creative and critical thinkers, capable of exercising rationality, apprehending truth, and making aesthetic distinctions."
We are dedicated, caring teachers creating an extremely safe, caring, family-like environment. Class sizes are very small with lots of individual programming and attention to each student. We make learning FUN!
We inspire human excellence through our approach that balances the child's emotional, physical and intellectual needs. This holistic style uses the five Universal Human Values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love and Non-Violence. We realize that every child is innately divine. Our teaching method employs direct instruction through songs, storytelling, meditation and group activities. We integrate these five human values into the more comprehensive curriculum and enrichment activities.
FORMAL SUPPORT FOR DISORDERS, DISABILITIES, AND EXCEPTIONALITIESA - Forms of SupportAccommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - EnvironmentsIndirect Support:
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
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| Forms of Support | Environments | Forms of Support | Environments | |
ADHD (moderate to severe) This is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Children with ADHD may be hyperactive and unable control their impulses. Or they may have trouble paying attention. These behaviors can interfere with school and home life. | ||||
| Learning disabilities | ||||
Dyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability) This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment. | ||||
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language. | ||||
Dyscalculia This is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money. | ||||
Dysgraphia This is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas. | ||||
Language Processing Disorder This is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.
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Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD) These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills. | ||||
Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor Deficit A characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination. | ||||
| Developmental | ||||
Autism Refers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome). | ||||
Asperger's Syndrome On the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour. | ||||
Down syndrome his is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics. | ||||
Intellectual disability This is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation). | ||||
Williams syndrome This is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems. | ||||
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems. | ||||
| Behavioral and Emotional | ||||
Troubled behaviour / troubled teens roubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. | ||||
Clinical Depression This is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life. | ||||
Clinical anxiety This is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror. | ||||
Suicidal thoughts This involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life. | ||||
Drug and alcohol abuse This involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning. | ||||
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning. | ||||
| Physical | ||||
Multiple sclerosis This is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties. | ||||
Cerebral palsy his refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. | ||||
Muscular dystrophy Muscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals. | ||||
Spina Bifida This is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine. | ||||
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder) This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech. | ||||
Blindness Visual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness." | ||||
Deafness Hearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds). | ||||
Cystic Fibrosis Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults. | ||||
Multiple physical Accommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities. | ||||
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Modifications
Extra support
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
Social skills programs
Occupational therapy
Psychotherapy
Speech-language therapy
We are opposed to drugging our children with psychiatric drugs that have been proven to be dangerous yet are being diagnosed on nothing more than opinion (there are no medical tests of any kind for the conditions listed).
Information not available
Our belief is that children are being given labels at an alarming rate, and that most "learning" or "developmental" disabilities stem from causes that have nothing to do with anything being inherently wrong with the child. Previous poor teaching, poor diet, lack of exercise or discipline can cause non-optimum behaviour that can be corrected; we have done so many times.
Information not available
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
CompetitiveComp. |
RecreationalRec. |
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Badminton |
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Baseball |
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Basketball |
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Canoeing/Kayaking |
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Cricket |
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Cross-country skiing |
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Cycling |
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Downhill skiing |
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Equestrian |
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Fencing |
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Field Hockey |
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Figure Skating |
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Football |
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Golf |
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Gymnastics |
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Ice Hockey |
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Ice Skating |
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Lacrosse |
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Martial Arts |
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Mountain biking |
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Racquet Ball |
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Rowing |
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Rugby |
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Running |
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Sailing |
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Skateboarding |
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Snowboarding |
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Soccer |
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Softball |
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Squash |
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Swimming |
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Tennis |
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Track & Field |
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Volleyball |
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Weightlifting |
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Wrestling |
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Archery |
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Curling |
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Ultimate |
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
Ballet and Classical Ballet
Yoga
Yearbook
Student Council
Scouting
Science Club
School newspaper
Round Square
Robotics club
Radio club
Poetry/Literature club
Photography
Paintball
Outdoor Education
Outdoor Club
Online Magazine
Musical theatre/Opera
Math Club
Jazz Ensemble
Habitat for Humanity
Foreign Language Club
Environmental Club
Drama Club
Debate Club
Dance Club
Computer Club
Community Service
Choir
Chess Club
Band
Audiovisual Club
Astronomy Club
Art Club
Animation
JK - 6
10%
0%
$850
$0
95%
0%
Preschool, JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
JK, SK, K, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Rolling
Mar 30, 2023
Not available
Not available
Yes: grades Preschool - 3
Yes: grades JK - 2
No
No
No
No
No
Yes: grades 3 - 8
No
No
No
No
Students who are willing to challenge themselves and learn and whose parents want them to excel.
Students of the Sathya Sai School are expected to strive to: - Achieve academic excellence; - Apply the five Human Values in daily life; - Develop good study and work habits such as concentration, time management and commitment; - Display friendliness and cooperation by forming positive relationships with peers and adults; - Show respect for other people’s feelings, values and beliefs; - Show initiative and willingness to accept responsibility; and - Render selfless service to the community.
ACADEMICS: None. We are usually able to turn around a child's failed education within a short time. (Our view is that almost all "Learning Disability" comes from improper teaching and can be corrected.) Reading comprehension and math testing will be done before enrolment to assess the correct starting point. BEHAVIOR: As with academics, our experience is that virtually all "ADHD" and behaviour-type problems are "learned" behaviours (often caused by a poor learning environment itself) and are not signs of deficiencies within the child. We have turned around many students with a little bit of discipline and by creating a stimulating, caring school that makes learning fun.
The application must be made using the online Application for Admission.
All applicants and parents for Junior Kindergarten to Grade 2 will receive an in-person interview to determine whether our school and your family are a good fit. Applicants will then be placed in a pool and students will be selected by lottery.
All applicants for Grades 3 to 8 will write a Placement Test, based on the curriculum of the student’s current year. Applications are open to siblings of students already enrolled, subject to the same criteria as other applicants.
The decision of the Admissions Committee will be final.
Applicant must be either a Canadian Citizen, a Permanent Resident, or on a Student Visa.
