Every Student Brings Value to Their School Community
Every Student Brings Value to Their School Community
We actively promote the goal of inclusion– where students with special needs participate fully in the life of their school community. Although students with very high needs may require specialized placements, wherever possible, students with special needs learn in regular classrooms with age-appropriate peers.
At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, we want every student to have the opportunity to reach their full potential by allowing them to grow and develop as unique individuals. This is reflected in our approach to special education and in the full range of placements and services we provide to meet student needs.
What You Need to Know
What You Need to Know
Where Do Parents Start?
Navigating the world of special education can be overwhelming. If you have special education concerns about your child, the best first step is to talk with your child’s classroom teacher or resource teacher. Once you’ve talked to them, you can also get assistance and direction from your school Principal, a special education consultant, your school Superintendent or the Superintendent of Special Education.
If you need more information, the Special Education Department has put together a guide for families through our process at the OCSB.
Individual Education Plan (IEP)
To make sure we meet the learning needs of your child, we collaborate with you to develop an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for your child every year.
This written plan outlines the special education program or services your child will need to learn and demonstrate they are learning. Your child’s IEP is a working document that will be reviewed and adjusted throughout the year.
Identification, Placement and Review Committee
Our Identification, Placement, and Review Committee (IPRC) is the team that decides whether or not a student should be identified as exceptional. The committee consists of a Principal, two other teachers and Special Education staff. They are also responsible for determining the appropriate placement for the student using guidelines from the Ministry of Education. These decisions are reviewed at least once per school year. Learn more about IPRC meetings in our Guide to Special Education for Families.
OCSB Special Education Report
Our Special Education Report provides a comprehensive look at all the Special Education Programs and services we offer.
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
The parent-led Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is a Ministry-mandated advisory committee that provides important advice on matters regarding special education programs to the Board. Many parents of children with special education needs find this committee helpful. Current representatives include:
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
The parent-led Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is a Ministry-mandated advisory committee that provides important advice on matters regarding special education programs to the Board. Many parents of children with special education needs find this committee helpful. Current representatives include:
- Traci Clarke, Chairperson
- Vacant, Vice-Chairperson
SEAC Members 2022- 2026
- Association for Bright Children (ABC): Betsy Schuurman, Alternate: Adrienne Charlton
- Autism Ontario: Dr. Erica Thrift Caird, Alternate: Afshan Jeoffrey
- Down Syndrome Association – NCR: Laura Haller, Alternate: Vickie Kotow
- Easter Seals Ontario: Vacant, Alternate: Vacant
- Epilepsy Ottawa: Vacant, Alternate: Vacant
- Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Group of Ottawa: Davina Mullaley, Alternate: Vacant
- Inclusion Action Ontario: Traci Clarke, Alternate: Erinn Ladouceur
- Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario, Ottawa Chapter (LDAO-OC): Dr. Leanne Keddie, Alternate: Antonio Giamberardino
- Ontario Parents of Visually Impaired Children: Dawn Pickering, Alternate: Helen McRobbie
- Community Members at Large (3): Catherine Holmes, Kerry Monaghan
- Ottawa Catholic School Parents’ Association (CSPA): Traci Clarke
- Trustees (2): Sandra Moore, Luka Luketic-Buyers, Alternates: Scott Phelan, Cindy Simpson
MEETINGS: SEAC Agendas & Minutes
Monthly meetings are held during the school year at 6:30 pm at the OCSB Office, located at 570 West Hunt Club Road in Nepean.
All meetings are open to the public and offered in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual attendance.
2025-2026 SEAC Agendas & Minutes
| Date of Meeting | Agenda | Meeting Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| September 17, 2025 | ||
| October 8, 2025 | ||
| November 19, 2025 | - |
|
| December 17, 2025 | - | - |
| January 21, 2026 | - | - |
| February 18, 2026 | - | - |
| March 18, 2026 | - | - |
| April 15, 2026 | - | - |
| May 20, 2026 | - | - |
| June 17, 2026 | - | - |
We Are Here to Assist You
We Are Here to Assist You
Your first point of contact is your child’s school for concerns related to Special Education & Student Services. You can start with your classroom teacher, then speak with your Principal if needed.
Special Education & Student Services:
- Phone: 613-224-4455 Ext 2351
- Fax: 613-225-9153
Special Education Advisory Committee (Parent Volunteer Group):
