The PDSB Resource Services Department provides a range of services to families and school boards in support of students who are blind, deafblind, low-vision, Deaf, hard of hearing or who have a severe learning disability.
Our programs include workshops, on-line learning opportunities and early intervention programs designed to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and ideas so that students across the province are able to achieve their full academic potential.
A referral process is in place for individual students to be seen by resource consultants.
Principals' Messages:
Welcome to W. Ross Macdonald School Resource Services. Our Vision Resource Services and Deafblind Resource Services departments support district school boards in Ontario to meet the unique needs of the smallest population of learners. The history of our program stretches back 60 years, to the formation of the first district school board program for students who are blind in Ontario. Our continued commitment is shown through our ability to assist any English language board in Ontario, whether providing assessments, attending transition meetings, assisting in IEP creation, mentoring new TVI’s, or just being available for questions and advice. This commitment extends to pre-school age children who are Deafblind or who are potential braille users, helping them transition into their local schools.
-Dan Maggiacomo, System Principal of Blind, Low-Vision and Deafblind Resource Services
The Resource Services for Deaf Program is a crucial pedagogical initiative that supports students, families, and educators with a range of resources and services specifically tailored to guide and support Deaf and Hard of Hearing students in Ontario. The program is designed to highlight the diversity and enduring strength of the tapestry of Deaf Education using the de-streaming model, patterned on the principle of equity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students of all ages, from early years (aged 0 to 4) through to age 21.
This program focuses on the pedagogy of Deaf Education in both ASL and English, with a strong focus on literacy. It ensures that both languages and literacy are effectively integrated in supporting students' educational development and needs.
The Resource Services for Deaf Program serves provincial bilingual and bicultural schools for the Deaf as well as school boards across the province, promoting a distinctive approach to Deaf Education through an asset-based lens. This is achieved by examining various aspects of Deaf Education, including language, literacy, culture, history. By addressing these elements, we aim to best support students' academic achievement and overall well-being.
-Heather Gibson, System Principal of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Resource Services