Interview with Junior Academy PARENT, Dylan P

At the end of the last school year, I started looking for a school for my eldest child, who was then in Grade 1 at our local public school. It became increasingly clear, especially during the pandemic, that he needed a different environment—one that would be more supportive of his unique needs. So, I began researching on the Internet but quickly realized I wanted better data to guide my decision-making process.

The school's approach to integrating my son was amazing. Knowing he would face challenges with transition, they were incredibly supportive over the summer, allowing us to visit as many times as we wanted. The week before school started, we met twice with the principal, the occupational therapist, and his teacher to discuss my son’s specific needs openly. The following day, my son had a one-on-one meeting with his teacher, with the principal present, and was given another tour of the school. On the first day of school, parents were invited to stay with their kids for an hour, helping ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

The school has a huge basement gym and an occupational therapy gym, stocked with gymnastics mats, hammocks, and other sensory and physical tools. They also have an occupational therapist on-site who works directly with many kids, including my son. During his sessions, he participates with a peer, with partners switched regularly to develop social skills, and they plan activities in advance for their OT days.

The inclusivity at Junior Academy is outstanding, and they’ve truly created an environment where my son feels supported, appreciated, and confident. His strengths are recognized and celebrated, and any challenges he might face aren’t viewed as obstacles but as aspects of his individuality. This approach starkly contrasts with his experience in public school, where his needs were not as fully understood or addressed.

The level of support at Junior Academy, especially for a small school, is impressive. Every day, the principal and two top administrators greet us at the car drop-off line, opening the door and personally welcoming each child by name. This daily gesture of recognition and connection has a big impact on my son’s confidence as he starts his day.

In my son's first year, I organized a Halloween party in our backyard, inviting all the parents and kids in his class, which fostered a strong community. We created a WhatsApp group to stay connected, sharing information on homework, missing items, and birthday party invitations. This effort has helped form a supportive network beyond just school interactions.

His teacher has observed his growth as a leader in the classroom, something he hadn’t experienced before. Each child is assigned a different responsibility every week, which has built up his self-esteem tremendously. Recently, he even took the initiative to read a book to his class, an act that’s significant for a shy child like him, showing how supported and confident he feels.

Junior Academy also offers flexibility to adapt to each child’s academic needs. When I noticed my son had a natural talent for math and asked if he could join the older grade’s math class to avoid boredom, they readily agreed. This openness to creative ideas allows each child to learn at their own pace and level.

The staff at Junior Academy are incredibly well-trained, inclusive, and committed to meeting each child at their level, giving them the support they need to succeed. I feel truly invested in the school, have strong relationships with the leadership and teachers, and have immense faith in their ability to provide my son with the education and support he deserves.