Early Years

MSD offers Early Years programming from Kindergarten to Grade 5. The school follows the curriculum developed by Manitoba Education.  Students in Early Years have one primary teacher.  Co -teaching and cross groupings are done according to subject and skill level.  Literacy development in both English and American Sign Language are critical elements in our Early Years classrooms.  Students new to the school participate in a language screening process and information from the screening helps guide programming.  Literacy development includes: a vocabulary recognition program, Guided Reading, and ASL classes.   Students attend physical education, library, and computer classes in their weekly schedule.

Below are some exciting programs and projects that enhance student learning.

Manipulative Visual Language

Manipulative Visual Language (MVL) is being used to help teach written language skills.  MVL is an old idea with a spin for Deaf and hard of hearing learners to help crack the code of English.  It is an innovative system which presents the rules of grammar visually, enabling student to see, touch and manipulate parts of speech using colorful shapes made of wood or plastic.

Roots of Empathy

Early Years students are also involved in a unique program called Roots of Empathy (ROE).  ROE is an evidence-based classroom program that reduces aggression and violence, and increases pro-social behaviours such as compassion, respect and empathy.  At the time ROE was introduced, MSD was the first and only school for the Deaf offering this program!

Roots of Empathy is supported by Healthy Child Manitoba and is designed for 4 separate levels: Kindergarten, Grades 1-3, 4-6, and 7-8.  ROE is taught by a certified instructor and includes monthly visits with a volunteer BABY and parent(s).  This program is sought after by over 100 schools in Manitoba, as well as nationally and internationally.

ART at the Winnipeg Art Gallery

A partnership between Boeing and the Winnipeg Art Gallery provides 10 weeks of art classes every spring.  Students learn to draw, paint, and sculpt using a variety of materials. It is a wonderful opportunity to engage creativity.  Students have the opportunity to display their work in a formal art exhibition at the end of the program.