FASD - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Programs Fact Sheet
February 8, 2023
- Since 1995, the Winnipeg School Division, in partnership with Healthy Child Manitoba, has successfully pioneered programs for students who have a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). These programs have now expanded to a total of five schools across the division. Due to the uniqueness of the FASD program, staff have become leaders in sharing concepts and strategies with other educators around the world.
- The FASD programs offers students low-enrolment, specialized classrooms that are specifically designed to meet the unique individual learning needs of students who have been diagnosed with FASD. The program provides effective strategies, Student Specific Plans, and environmental adaptations to support students with academics and social skills learning. As students demonstrate readiness, opportunities for student integration into regular programs are pursued.
- FASD programs are located at David Livingstone School, Luxton School, Shaughnessy Park School, R.B. Russell High School and St. John's High School.
- In 2008, students in the intermediate FASD program (Bridges) at David Livingstone School, wrote and published Living and Learning with FASD: Jilly's Story, a book that explains FASD from its challenges to coping strategies and tools. The book uses a "tool kit" analogy for the brain, noting FASD students are able to access some tools easier than others.
- WSD employs a Neurodiverse (FASD) Support Teacher as part of Inclusion Support Services to assist schools with programming for students in both inclusive and program settings.