About Us / FAQ

PALS was conceived by its original founders, Allison Arai, Cynthia Gerlach, Katy Harandi, Tammy Kalla and Cindy Maltman. Five mothers of children with autism and complex developmental disabilities. PALS was incorporated on August 25, 2006 as a non-profit independent school under the Society Act of British Columbia and is a registered charity.  The creation of the vision and model of service was led by Dr. Suzanne Jacobsen who relied on her decades of experience in the field of special education to guide the development of the plan and who acted as the administrator during the first year of operation. PALS opened in July 2007 with 10 students. Currently, the school’s enrollment is at 18.

The current management consists of a Board of Directors and Head of School.

Mission & Philosophy

The mission of the Phoenix Academy of Learning Society (PALS) is to provide individualized educational programs for children/adolescents with complex developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PALS will use the most effective, scientifically validated instruction to maximize the development of each student’s communication and language, social, academic and life/independence skills.

Our philosophy is that every child is unique, every child is valued and every child can learn and be the best that they can be. We believe that effective and efficient teaching and behavior management, provided by skilled individuals, will enable each student to achieve to the fullest extent of his/her individual abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ratio of staff to students?

The ratio is 2 adults to 3 children. The ABA trained staff consist of Certified teachers working alongside Educational Interventionists supervised by Board Certified Behaviour Analysts.

What grades do you offer?

We are an elementary and secondary school offering education to children registered from K to Grade 10.

Does a child need to be verbal to attend?

No.

Are there SLPs, OTs, PTs on staff or available to do consult work?

At present, the Canucks for Kids Fund have donated funds to provide SLP consultation for all the children. Parents are responsible for the costs of outside consults.

What are the hours?

School day is from 9am to 2pm in addition to an hour of intensive intervention from 2-3pm after school. This hour is billed monthly and families can use their autism funding for reimbursement. Before and after school care is optional and available at extra cost. PALS is a year round school with a two week summer break at the end of August, one week off for spring break, two weeks off for Christmas and one week off at the end of June.

Are programs individualized, based on a functional assessment and parent priorities?

Each child will have an individualized education plan (IEP) following the BC Education Curriculum. In addition, all children will have an ABLLS-R assessment to determine the current functional level and skills required. Parents attend team meetings once a month to discuss their child’s program. Four meetings a year are scheduled with parents for discussion about their child’s progress. A monthly meeting is held with the teacher and behaviour analyst and parents are welcome to attend this meeting if they prefer. 

Is there any opportunity for integration with typical kids?

This is one of our primary goals, we are in discussion with other schools to create opportunities for integration in a meaningful setting.

Is there an outdoor/playground area?

We have access to two public parks and a community swimming pool 2 blocks away. There is a small outdoor play area used primarily by the younger children.

What is the tuition?

The tuition is presently set at $750/month for the school program running from 9am – 2pm.

Is there a waiting list?

There is a growing waiting list. If you would like to be added to the waiting list, please send a completed Intake Form. Once a spot is available in a grouping of children, we look through the list to identify the child that would fit best in that grouping. This selection is based on age and functioning level of the child.