At Possibilities, we believe that supporting neurodiverse learners takes collaboration between families, schools, and community professionals. Our School Spotlight series highlights private schools that offer inclusive learning environments, specialized programs, and individualized supports designed to meet a range of developmental and learning needs. These features help parents explore private school education options and connect with schools that align with their child’s strengths and support needs.
A small, progressive Toronto elementary school where academic learning and social-emotional development go hand in hand — and every child is known, valued, and empowered to thrive.
What Makes The Mabin School Unique?
- An inquiry-based approach that lets students dive deep into learning
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One class per grade, JK through Grade 6 — around 20 students per grade; everyone truly knows everyone
- Two educators per classroom: a homeroom teacher and a dedicated Learning Strategies Teacher (LST)
- Academic achievement and social-emotional development are equally important
- A whole-child approach integrating learning, well-being, self-advocacy, and life skills from JK through Grade 6
- A school culture built on belonging, safety, and deep relationships
In-House & External Support
- Learning Strategies Teachers (LSTs) embedded in Grades 1–6
- In-school social worker available several days per week
- External Occupational Therapy and Speech-Language Pathology providers visit regularly
- Ongoing, collaborative communication between teachers, specialists, and families
Student Learning Plans
Where needed, Mabin develops a Student Learning Plan (SLP) for each student — tailored to their unique strengths, challenges, and goals. Plans are developed collaboratively with families and updated as the student grows. Learning strategies are embedded into daily classroom life so every student’s needs are met without being singled out.
Supporting Neurodiverse Learners
- Six qualified Learning Strategies Teachers (LSTs) collaborate with classroom teachers across all grade levels
- Student Learning Plans tailored to individual strengths, needs, and goals
- Learning strategies and accommodations embedded directly into daily classroom instruction
- 1:1 access to technology (Grades 1-6) used as needed to support each learner
- Classrooms designed with sensory supports: alternative seating, weighted lap blankets, visual supports, treadmill desk, and wiggle cushions
- Dedicated quiet spaces for breaks, regulation, or calming
- Explicit instruction in emotional intelligence and self-advocacy beginning in JK
Specialized Programs & Supports
- Daily Group Time (Grades 1–6) Small, targeted groups focusing on language and/or numeracy — for enrichment, support, or differentiated instruction.
- Habits of Mind Introduced in JK through Grade 6, developing ten core life skills: empathy, persistence, flexibility, and problem-solving.
- Early Childhood Specialists Dedicated specialists support JK and SK for developmentally appropriate, play-based learning.
- Half-Class Instructional Time Each week, classes split for deeper, more individualized teaching in smaller group settings.
- Small-Group Specialized Instruction Provided as needed for academic and social-emotional growth, coordinated by the LST team.
Beyond Academics
- Specialist Teachers Music, art, STEM, French, physical education & health, and library.
- Clubs & Extracurriculars Clubs, sports teams with student coaching, intramural sports, dance, martial arts, and pickleball.
- Community Intergenerational art projects connecting students to the broader world.
Building Community
- Cross-grade integration every Friday, fostering mentorship and leadership
- House groups made up of students from all grades to foster inclusion and build leadership skills
- Weekly whole-school assemblies reinforcing shared values
- Regular family events to strengthen the school-home partnership
- Parent workshops focused on mental health and well-being
- An active parents’ association
What Makes Mabin Unique
Two educators in every classroom. Six Learning Strategies Teachers across the school. A culture where everyone knows everyone. Mabin is where children learn to know themselves — and flourish.
Get in Touch
50 Poplar Plains Road, Toronto, ON M4V 2M8
416 964 9594 • office@mabin.com
mabin.com
JK – Grade 6 • 1 class per grade • Co-ed Day School
“Mabin offers a thoughtful, deep program that lets every child meet their potential academically and emotionally. The result? Children emerge from Mabin really knowing themselves, what they need to succeed, and engaging deeply with the world.”
— Mabin School Parent
