A groundbreaking program at Elsipogtog School has helped Kade Francis, a student who was once suspected of being on the autism spectrum and unlikely to speak, make remarkable progress. The school, serving 350 students from the Mi’kmaw community, offers early screening, diagnosis, and support for children with neurological conditions to help them succeed academically.
Krystal Francis, Kade’s mother, expressed her initial concerns about her son’s future but credits the school program for his positive development. The program, which has been in place for over a decade, utilizes Indigenous-led principles to assess students, diagnose conditions, and provide specialized teaching within the school.
The team at Elsipogtog School has grown significantly over the years to include various professionals such as occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, guidance counselors, and literacy and math experts. They collaborate with physicians to diagnose conditions like ADHD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and autism spectrum disorder, offering tailored support to students until their Grade 8 graduation.
Occupational therapist Christine Agnew, who has worked closely with Kade since he was four, provides one-on-one sessions to help him with fine motor skills and other developmental areas. The program focuses on early intervention, with students screened before entering kindergarten to better understand their needs and provide appropriate support.
The school’s emphasis on Indigenous teachings and collaboration with the Eastern Door Centre further enhances the services offered to students. The success of the program is evident in the improved outcomes for students like Kade, who now wears a weighted vest in class to help him focus and learn effectively.
Ivan Augustine, the education director of Elsipogtog First Nation, highlights the program’s role in building resilient students who are better equipped to face challenges in the future. The community’s increasing awareness of the program has led to greater acceptance and support for children with various conditions, ensuring they receive the assistance they need to thrive academically.
Funding from Jordan’s Principle has been crucial for the program’s expansion, but consistent financial support remains a concern for the future. Despite challenges, parents like Krystal Francis appreciate the dedicated support team at the school, which has made a significant difference in their children’s lives.