Centered on Students. Grounded in Community. Driven by Data.
Rute Mendes — EdD(c), M.Ed., B.Ed., B.Sc. O.T.
Coordinator of Student Services, St. James-Assiniboia School Division
Leading Through Complexity: A Vision for True Inclusion
Inclusion in today's schools is no longer simply about physical presence — it requires robust, coordinated systems that respond to the full complexity of students' needs. Across SJASD, teams are navigating an unprecedented intersection of acute crisis pressures, intensive planning demands, and high administrative and clinical loads.
The Scale of the Challenge
Each school year, staff manage 27 risk assessments, 32 suicide protocols, and classroom averages of 4–7 Adapted Learning Plans (ALPs) — all simultaneously. This is the new normal.
Administrative & Clinical Load
- 261 Clinical Management Plans (CMPs)
- 192 Positive Behaviour Support Plans (PBSPs)
- 59 Combined High-Stakes Protocols (Risk/Suicide)
True Inclusion vs. Presence
Inclusion means addressing physical, emotional, systemic, and resource dimensions — not just shared space.
Behaviour as Communication
Distress, withdrawal, and behaviour are signals of deep needs. Our systems must listen and respond accordingly.
The Human Connection
When schools struggle, the whole community feels it. A coordinated response reduces stress and supports everyone.
Anchoring Operations in the SJASD Strategic Focus Areas
Every decision made within Student Services is grounded in the SJASD strategic framework — a commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and caring environments through continuous improvement, meaningful community partnerships, and the fiscally responsible use of resources.
Ma Mawi Anokiitaw Minaawaa — We Will Work Together Again
Indigenous partnerships and reconciliation are at the heart of our approach to inclusive education and community
Vision for Leading Inclusive and Equitable Student Support Services