About
Foothills Academy is a specialized centre for students with Learning Disabilities. Many students may also have a co-occurring diagnosis such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The goal is to enable students to reach their potential, complete high school and successfully transition to post-secondary education. Foothills Academy focuses on the whole child. Each student receives a program geared to improvement in the academic, work study and, social/emotional domains. The program provided is generated in a collaborative approach involving the student, parents, and staff. Students receive an academic program following the Alberta Education Curriculum. Teachers use a differentiated teaching approach with strategy-based teaching methods. Students benefit from the small class sizes and receive strategies to develop their skills to reach their full potential. The dedicated staff is involved in on-going research and implementation of innovative teaching programs and technology. Technology is incorporated into the curriculum. Students in the School Program can participate in numerous intramural sports, athletic teams, school trips, science fairs, and drama productions. The Community Services division of Foothills Academy consists of educator training, research, intensive tutoring, psychological testing and counselling, recreation-based programs including a summer camp (Camp Amicus), parent education and advocacy work. In a research project completed by Alberta Education and The University of Alberta, the program at Foothills Academy has been recognized as exemplary in the field of education in the province.