W.O. Mitchell ES

Our Students

W.O. Mitchell is a dual track school offering both an English program and an Early French Immersion program. Current enrollment is approximately 542 students. We have a number of children who speak English as their second language and we offer ESL services. We have a class for pupils with developmental disabilities. and another for primary special needs. Grade 4 students wishing to attend the Middle French Immersion program attend Bridlewood Elementary School. Upon leaving, the majority of our grade 8 students attend A.Y. Jackson Secondary School.

Our Staff

Our academic team consists of 38 teachers, 8 ECE's and 5 educational assistants along with a Vice Principal and a Principal. Our two office staff, two part-time library technicians, and four custodians are all integral members of our school team, dedicated to connecting to students on an individual level. We have a Special Education department to serve the needs of children who require Special Education support. At WOM, each beginning teacher is assigned a more experienced teacher mentor to provide support and guidance. Staff members are highly qualified in a variety of academic disciplines. Thanks to our dedicated and talented staff members, our students also benefit from a variety of extracurricular activities.

Our Community

The suburban school community located in Kanata is surrounded by parks and basic local services. Libraries and community centres are located in the neighbouring communities of Glen Cairn and Beaverbrook. The Eva James Centre, on Stonehaven, offers many programs for our families. The School Council serves as an advisory body to the school and plays an integral part in creating a welcoming atmosphere for parents and students. The Council holds its monthly meetings at 7:00 in the school library on the second Tuesday of most months (except December, March and June).

Mission Statement

W.O. Mitchell E.S. is a safe and caring community of learners committed to fostering personal excellence.

Facilities and Resources

A large library with a growing collection

• Computer technology throughout the school including SMART iRovers, SMART slates, a document camera, media carts, digital projectors in every classroom and a computer lab.

• Large and bright kindergarten classrooms

• Double gym with change and shower facilities

• Full stage for school performances

• Adjacent parkland with outdoor ice rink, ball diamond and soccer pitch

• Science lab, art room, music room

• Two outdoor play structures

Programs and Services

Academic Programs

• Regular English with Core French, JK to grade 8
• Early French Immersion, SK to grade 8
• Instrumental music – grades 7, 8

Classroom Organization

W.O Mitchell is a junior kindergarten to grade 8 community school with both regular English classes and Early French Immersion classes.

Special Education and ESL Programs

• Primary program for pupils with developmental disabilities
• Primary Special Needs classroom
• Program support and educational assessments with a Learning Support Teacher
• Primary, Junior and Intermediate Special Education teachers provide support to students with special needs in the regular classroom
• English as a Second Language support
• The Intermediate Student Success program provides additional support and resources for intermediate students with a focus on preparing for the successful transition to high school and beyond

Clubs and Activities

• Grade 7 & 8 Student Council
• Reel Cool Productions video club
• WOM Spirit and Character Team (Sprit Assemblies)
• Concerts and assemblies to showcase student talents
• Build a Brick Social Justice Club
• Primary/Junior Games Clubs
• Intramurals and interschool athletics for junior and intermediate students
• Special interest groups
• ECO Schools Environment Club
• Musical events
• Mavericks Talent Show and WOM’s Got Talent
• Musical Productions

Safe Schools Initiatives

Our Student Code of Behaviour is reviewed every year and is published in our student agendas. Our Crisis Management Plan and Emergency Plan are reviewed and updated annually. Our Safe Schools School-Based Committee is working on approving specific anti-bullying lessons for each division and on bringing new initiatives to the school. School Climate is a focus to reflect the OCDSB Community of Character wheel. ie: positive school themes, announcements, posters and assemblies. Students and staff are asked to use “WOM Hearts” to resolve conflict and bystanders are asked to become “upstanders” when witnessing unsafe behaviour. Educational support from the School Resource Officer, Constable Nethercott, is offered to all in our community.