Voice Integrative School

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 Lardino in 2000 to test the theory of Global Education on a school-wide level. Throughout the years, VIS’ educational philosophy has undergone its own 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;