The Diverse Learning Centre, under the direction of Mrs. Mary Martha Starkman, strives to meet the needs of all Academy students and establish the foundation for their future successes.

We adhere to an inclusive philosophy that strives to meet the needs and strengths of all our students.  Through the implementation of remediation, in-class accommodations, and support for classroom teachers in modifying the core curriculum, the Diverse Learning Centre is enabling successful classroom experiences.

Mrs. Starkman is a highly respected educator with extensive experience in elementary school and special education for over 25 years.  She wrote her Master of Education Thesis on Inclusive Teaching Practice in the Jewish Day School: General Studies Teachers’ Experiences; served as Enrichment Specialist and Curriculum Consultant at Netivot HaTorah Day School; and was instrumental in the establishment and running of the Centre for Diverse Learning at the Kamin branch of Associated Hebrew Schools.

Ms. Starkman is joined by Ms. Margaret Secord, the founder of the programme.  Ms. Secord received her Master of Arts in Psychology from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.  She is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences at McMaster University where she is the Programme Coordinator for the Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours) Programme.  Ms. Secord continues to instruct part-time in the programme, provide consultation, and spearhead the implementation of JUMP Math at the Academy.

In addition to Ms. Secord the support staff include, Mrs. Kim Easter, an experienced Educational Assistant specialising in the field of special education.  Educational support is also available in both Hebrew language and Judaic studies.