Common Questions
Can my child attend Horizon School?
Students who attend Horizon School present with complex severe disabilities. The Director of Student Services, Heather Dennill (Phone 403-227-7070) screens students for eligibility into the school.
Please contact the school at 403-556-6310 if you have any questions.
What is the student profile?
The students at Horizon School present with multiple, complex learning needs including those with:
- Cognitive disabilities
- Physical disabilities
- Sensory impairments
- Medical/health needs
- Augmentative/alternate communication needs
All students qualify for Severe Disabilities funding from Alberta Education.
What are the school hours?
The school day begins at 8:45 AM and ends at 3:00 pm. Horizon School operates on a Year-Round calendar.
How large are the classes? What are the staffing ratios?Class size at Horizon range from seven to twelve students. Each classroom has a certified teacher and education assistants. The adult:student ratio is 1:2.
Students are eligible for school bus transportation to and from Horizon School. There is a driver and two assistants on each bus. Please contact the school or the Chinook's Edge Transportation Department for more information.
What about therapeutic supports for my child?
Therapeutic supports are provided by the REACH Team including:
- Physical Therapist
- Occupational Therapist
- Education Consultant- Vision
- Psychologist
- Speech Language Pathologist
The service delivery is consultative and may include assessment, programming recommendations, monitoring of individual programs, professional development and consultation with school staff and parents.
What does the swimming program involve?
Students at Horizon School swim at the Olds Aquatic Centre once per week. Swimming schedules are sent home at the beginning of the year. Students each have swimming programs developed for them in consultation with our REACH team.
Participation in the pool program is dependant upon the availability of volunteer support and the programming priorities established on the student’s IPP.
There are no additional fees for the swim program.
What about technology?
Our school is equipped with a computer lab as well as one interactive whiteboard. Students have access to a variety of assistive technology including switches to facilitate choice making, tech talks, and touch screens.
Can I volunteer at the school?
The school welcomes volunteers. There are opportunities to volunteer in the pool and in the classroom. Please contact the school if you are interested in volunteering.