Community Learning

School trips at MJDS have always been planned with inclusion in mind, and Benji and Giulietta have been active participants in every outing. From local excursions to trips to Montreal and Quebec City, the goal has always been for them to be fully involved alongside their classmates. Teachers, support staff, and peers worked together to make activities accessible and engaging. Classmates also played an important role in inclusion, offering help when needed and welcoming Benji

For quite some time now, Giulietta has been an active part of the Yachad program, an inclusive space where individuals build friendships, develop social skills, and participate in meaningful group activities. Yachad has truly become a community for Giulietta. Building Confidence Through Connection Each session at Yachad begins with an hour of free choice. This is one of Giulietta’s favourite parts of the evening. During this time, Giulietta is encouraged to communicate using

Benji hard at work on the farm, focused and proud as he completes his tasks. Our First Visit to Windreach Farm When we first started volunteering at Windreach Farm back in 2018, we had no idea how deeply it would impact our lives. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was so inviting and welcoming that we instantly felt a connection, not only to the farm itself, but also to the people who make it so special. There’s an indescribable feeling that comes from belonging to a

A visit to a coffee shop offers a great opportunity for experiential learning for Benji. This environment allows Benji to practice social and communication skills. Using PECS enhances the experience by supporting communication and providing a structured way for Benji to engage with his surroundings. Everyday outings offer powerful opportunities for learning, and coffee shop visits have become a meaningful way for Benji to practice real-world communication, decision-making, an