Educational Outreach
GVDSS provides support to local educators and families to effect positive outcomes for inclusive education in the Greater Victoria area and to enhance opportunities for learners with Down syndrome. We do this through several different activities.
Conferences
Since 2016, GVDSS has been sponsoring a series of single day conferences aimed at educators, school support staff and parents. These conferences are aimed at providing expert advise and practical tools for those working with students with Down syndrome in a variety of different settings. Partnering with experts in the field such as the Down Syndrome Resource Foundation and the Senden Center for Behavioral Health, the conferences have covered a wide variety of topics including communications, reading comprehension, numeracy, occupational therapy strategies and positive behaviour support.
The conference is typically held during the provincial school district professional development (Pro-D) day in October each year. We very excited to announce that the conference is back on for October 2023
Detailed information on the 2023 Conference can be found on our conference info and registration website
Presentations
GVDSS has developed a presentation that provides an introduction to Down syndrome and the typical physical and physiological challenges that children and adolescents may face as they grow and learn. The presentation aims to break down some of the myths and stereotypes around Down syndrome, includes practical tips for enhancing learning outcomes and provides resources to explore for more information. GVDSS Board members have presented in the past to:
- School District staff
- Education Assistants
- Special Education Graduate Students
A copy of our standard presentation can be viewed by clicking on the image to the left. If your organization would be interested in having one or more of our members present to your group, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@gvdss.org