Crowther Memorial Junior High School

CMJHS has the privilege of participating in the International Student Program through GHSD. The number one goal in our junior high International program is integration. We want our International students to experience a quality, meaningful, safe and exciting Canadian program that not only offers English acquisition but also builds academic growth and enrichment while fostering life-long friendships and word-wide connections. Our integration model insists that students participate in all core academic classes, options, sports activities, fine arts, school functions, field trips and be provided English as a second language support as required.

Our English as a Second Language (ESL) support is a pull-out program which aims to help improve students’ English skills. Our goal is for each student to reach a level of English proficiency so that the experience of Junior High school can be fully appreciated and that gains are made in the spoken and written word. Each student is provided an ESL Initial Assessment & Placement Evaluation within the first few weeks. We then determine individual language proficiency and start the ESL support program through members of our Inclusive Education Team. We use a number of ESL resources including materials that focus on reading comprehension, vocabulary, sentence structure, speaking and conversation. We individualize each student’s program and provide an I.P.P. (Individualized Program Plan) to support their language learning in the regular classroom.

Although ESL support is very important, the best way for our International students to learn the language is through integration. Observations of language use, social interaction and routines of classrooms are all critical in the development of these language learners.

We also make time to gather as an International group to celebrate and participate through activities, field trips and group social interactions. We want to make the experience of Junior High as exciting and rewarding as possible.

The International Program at CMJHS is very exciting and mutually rewarding for all students. We have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to the continued success and partnership of the International program.