Program Description

The Excellence in Social Emotional Learning (ExSEL) program provides a supportive classroom setting for one year for students who require intensive support in Social Emotional Learning and Executive Functioning. Students are reviewed at the end of the 1-year term for a possible extension.  Instruction is differentiated and personalized to meet the unique learning profiles of each student with a focus on the Core Competencies.

The ExSEL program is in session Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 9am – 3pm, and Wednesday from 9am until lunch. Classes are not in session Wednesday afternoons.

Student Profile

• display social-emotional difficulties which meet the Ministry criteria for students requiring Moderate Behaviour Support (R), students requiring Intensive Behaviour Support (H), and students requiring support for a Chronic Health Impairment (D), (*Students with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (G) may also be considered)
• demonstrate significant challenges in the Core Competencies
• evidence of Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions have been implemented consistently at the school level

Referral Process

All applications to the program must be submitted to the District Case Manager, Behaviour.  The package should include:

• Request for Designation &/or Special Education Program Placement form
• Pre-Referral Intervention Strategies (PRIS) form
• Individual Education Plan (IEP)
• Positive Behaviour Support Plan
• School-Based Team minutes
• DESSA mini assessment
• other reports/assessments: as appropriate.

Placement Evaluation

Student placement is reviewed every spring with the goal of returning students to their home schools. A transition plan between the ExSEL program staff and the receiving school is developed.

Capacity and Staffing

Grades 4-7

10 students

1 Teacher, 1 SSA and 1 SSB

Program Locations

Beaconsfield Elementary

Franklin Elementary 

Henderson Elementary

McBride Elementary

Osler Elementary