Voice Integrative School (VIS) is a non-denominational, co-educational, academic school for grades 1 through 8. It has been a teacher education research school and practicum site for various Ontario Faculties of Education. VIS was founded by educator Marie Ladino in 2000 to test the theory of Global Education on a school-wide level. Throughout the years, VIS’s educational philosophy has undergone its evolution. However, our integrative pedagogical approach continues to be a holistic, issues-based, and all-encompassing model of education that teaches the “whole” child. VIS fosters a strong sense of belonging and offers a challenging academic program based on Ontario Curriculum expectations.
All subjects ask students to utilize critical thinking and higher-order skills to solve problems in real-life contexts. We offer a strong performing and liberal arts curriculum, as well as a dynamic sports program founded on approaches that are intrinsic to Integrative Education. We pride ourselves on creating a learning environment that promotes academic challenge, personal leadership, responsible citizenship, and the skills needed to learn for life.
- Delivers challenging academics in small classes
- Is the perfect balance of learning and teaching approaches intended to reach the “head” as well as the “heart” of each learner
- Places importance on higher-order skills such as critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving, cooperation, time management and organization
- Encourages critical thinking through diverse perspectives
- Is a safe learning environment where children can feel free from bullying and exclusion
- Is an environment of ‘rights and responsibilities with a strict demand for self-respect, respect for others, and respect for the environment
- Makes the Ontario Curriculum meaningful through the infusion and integration of personal, local, and global issues
- Draws from the past investigates the present, and inspires students to envision and strive for possible and preferred futures
- Enables students to develop strong skills in all core academic subjects
- Focuses on core subjects, (i.e., Mathematics, English, French, Spanish, Global Studies, History, Health, Science, Philosophy, Physical Education, Visual Arts, Theatre, Dance, Music, and Life Skills), while also providing cross-curricular integration to help students make vital connections
- Encompasses a balance of learner-centered approaches as well as teacher-directed lessons
- Embraces teacher-directed evaluation and expects self-evaluation and self-reflection from each student
- Provides learners with opportunities to work independently as well as cooperatively
- Offers a strong sports program and an innovative visual, music, and performing arts curriculum
