Special Education – Students who are funded under one or more of the special education categories receive individualized educational plans designed by a team including the student, parents, Special Education Teacher, Special Education Assistants and other resource people as required (i.e. physiotherapist, medical doctor, speech and language pathologist). The majority of these students are on the regular graduation route leading to a Dogwood Diploma and a few of these students are on a modified program leading to the completion of an Evergree (formerly known as a School Leaving) Certificate.

Learning Assistance – Students who have a history of learning difficulties or disabilities may be referred to the School Based Team to decide whether the student fits the criteria for receiving the support of Learning Assistance. If a student meets the criteria, assistance may be provided through the development of an individualized education plan detailing the adaptations necessary to facilitate academic success. Support takes various forms: specific adaptations provided by the classroom teacher, in-class support (Special Education Assistant), or a block of time in the Learning Center. All of these students are on the regular graduation route leading to a Dogwood Diploma.

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English as a Second Language - This program is designed to assist students in becoming proficient with speaking, reading, and writing the English language. Students receive individualized instruction following an individualized education program and receive support for their integrated courses so they can be successful.

Career Counselling – A number of services are provided through the Career Centre including student scheduling, work experience, career planning, university/college information, and calculation of graduation credits.

Personal Counselling - Students who are experiencing difficulty with academic, social or emotional concerns may access support through the student counsellor.

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Youth Care Worker (Stay in School Program) – GSS focuses on attendance through the efforts of the Youth Care Worker who monitors attendance on a daily basis, provides encouragement and support for students to attend regularly, liaisons between students, parents and teachers for students at-risk of failing or missing school, and organizes special field trips such as P.A.R.T.Y. and special activities such as a lunchtime games room. The Youth Care Worker also oversees the after-school study hall which runs three times a week.

Aboriginal Education  – Federal funding provides additional support for First Nations students to increase their opportunities for success. Parents can apply to have their children in this program by contacting the school. GSS has a First Nations centre called the Kikino Room staffed by two Aboriginal Education Support Workers. Students can drop in to the Kikino Room and become engaged in a variety of activities such as homework completion, First Nations crafts, and receive social-emotional support. There are also special events such as field trips and guest speakers planned throughout the year.  

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