The Elementary School provides specialized, on-campus educational instruction for students from Junior Kindergarten through Grade 8. All students have a five-day-per-week program.

All students follow the expectations laid out in their Individual Education Plan (IEP), which is developed at the beginning of the school year. Expectations are taken from the Ontario Curriculum.

Computer-assisted instruction is an integral part of the curriculum at the Robarts School for the Deaf. Students have access to computers in every classroom, in addition to those in the school’s two computer labs. A student-centred approach is used throughout the elementary school. Access to American Sign Language and English using a bilingual-bicultural approach is considered crucial during these formative years.

Other support services are available to students in the Elementary Program as well. These include a student advocate; targeted ASL learning for new students; individual and group Spoken English programs where the focus is on developing Spoken English skills, as well as speech reading; library facilities for students; and a multi-disciplinary school resource team.

Classroom assistants are provided to support our unique learning environment. Individual or group Spoken English programs may be provided after consultation with individual students, their parents, and school personnel.

Student achievements are recognized through a variety of activities, including awards day ceremonies, our TALONS and House League Character Education programs, and special assemblies. A Student Success Teacher is also available to support academic success for at-risk students and for the Grade 7 and 8 students, transitions into high school.

Students’ social and emotional growth is also a focus of the elementary curriculum. Character Education classes that promote problem-solving and decision-making skills have been established from kindergarten through Grade 8. With the support of our Community Police Officer, topics such as substance abuse, peer relations, and community service are covered for all students.