Specialized Staff

Therapists

A large component of our service is provided by our Speech Language Pathologists (SLP), Occupational Therapists (OT), Physical Therapists (PT), Vision and Hearing Consultants, Behaviour Therapists and Psychologists. These professionals provide:

• Assessments
• Therapeutic Services
• Individualized Program Planning goals

Therapy Services contracted by Quest have professional degrees in their various disciplines and are licensed to practice in the Province of Alberta.

Therapists at Quest have a somewhat complex and highly regarded role. They provide assessment for each student (determined by the child's need for therapy) and from that assessment, recommendations are made for program adaptation (at school and home). Program strategies are taught to teachers, instructional assistants and parents and are implemented into the classroom program.

Therapists are involved in monitoring each child's therapy goals and are available to staff and parents for consultation. Within these parameters, therapists observe classroom and home environments as required, recommend ways to accommodate individual needs and train other team members (staff and parents). This allows for therapeutic interventions to be extended into typical on-going classroom activities and routines.

 Music Therapy Services are contracted by the school twice a week. The therapist invites the students to sing along and play instruments that he brings with him.

These sessions use a recreational focus, while using music to stimulate active participation from students. The high levels of participation enthusiasm, positive effect and reactions have shown the success and enjoyment of this program. Each student is an integral part of the group and is encouraged to participate as much as possible

Teachers

All Teachers employed by Quest have their valid Professional Teacher's Certificate issued by the Government of Alberta Department of Learning. Teachers are responsible for their assigned classrooms, children's programs and Instructional Assistants' duties.   They act as the first line of authority within the classroom and are expected to coordinate all activities. Teachers have Key students and are responsible for I.P.P. development, implementation and evaluation of all children assigned to their classroom. In addition they liaise with therapists regarding assessments, program recommendations, clinic attendance (A.C.H.), equipment needs, etc.

Instructional Assistants

Instructional Assistants employed by Quest have various degrees and certificates required to bring professional rehabilitation skills to the "hands on" program at Quest. IA's in general are responsible for the programming needs of three students (this ratio may vary dependent on the children's needs).

Staff

So who makes Quest School operate like a big, safe family with educationally sound programs benefiting children with severe challenges?

Every staff member is a committed caring professional dedicated to providing programs for children with challenges.

Here are some facts about Quest Staff:

• 80% of all Quest Staff have been employed by Quest for at least 6 years
• all staff have special training and/or experience to be able to make a significant contribution to the program developed for each student
• all staff attend Professional Development sessions throughout the year to further their training and remain current about regarding in Special Education