School Testimonials

Six years ago we were returning to Ottawa after several years abroad and were faced with the difficult decision about where to send Thomas to school.  We were looking for an educational setting where Thomas would be provided with the numerous supports that he requires to manage his day, while at the same time a place that would be able to foster his sense of independence.  We found this delicate balance and more at Clifford Bowey.  We particularly like that a significant part of Thomas' education takes place outside the classroom, in the community.  This is how Thomas learns best, by real life experiences.  We appreciate the efforts of all the incredibly dedicated staff at Bowey who so enrich his every school day.  Thomas may not be able to verbalize to us how comfortable he is at Clifford Bowey but the pleasure with which he goes off to school in the morning tells us all we need to know about how very welcome he feels!

- Martha and David, September 2014
We see that Anni benefits from attending Clifford Bowey by her progress in speech and in her activities of daily living skills which keep improving.

- Grateful Mom, September 2014
Clifford Bowey School provides the specialized support that my son needs.  The teaching staff help him establish goals and develop new skills.  I feel very fortunate that he attends this school.

- Proud Mom, September 2014
Our son has been a student of Clifford Bowey School since 2007.  When we tried to secure a placement for our Special Needs son at our local school that year, we were very discouraged to discover that he could not be accommodated due to his many exceptionalities.  We were then introduced to the wonderful staff and students of Clifford Bowey and felt “rescued” !!!  The school has been instrumental to the development and personal growth of our son.  As an example, when he started school he had about 5 "words" using modified sign language signs and was extremely frustrated because he had no real means of expressing himself. Now he has about 200 verbal words, many are still unclear or whispered but the words that have value to him are crystal clear.  Using a picture card system he has learned to use at Clifford Bowey, he can make about 50 sentences and clearly make his wants, needs and desires known.  He has blossomed into a happy, content young man who is eager to return to school each and every day - with a smile on his face and a song in his heart.  Thank you, Clifford Bowey School !!

- Very Grateful Parents of a Special Needs Student, September 2014
Our son has been happy and joyful since being at Clifford Bowey School.  The staff are very kind and respectful.  They work hard to help our son learn new skills and enjoy many day to day activities.

- September 2014
A safe environment and great supportive staff for our daughter.  The therapeutic swimming program has been wonderful for her.

- September 2014
Picture
At Clifford Bowey, my son is happy and learning how to cope in the world and be productive. He is in a loving and safe environment and it has become part of his family.

- September 2014
Our daughter has benefited in many areas including social development and also in saying some words that she could not say before, like "no" and "more".  Thanks to the school, she is getting exposure to the world.

- September 2014
It has been my very great privilege to serve as the Public School Trustee for Clifford Bowey since 2010. I am proud that the Ottawa Carleton District School Board has such a wonderful school for children with developmental disabilities in our community. Clifford Bowey is a nurturing and caring environment, in which the students learn and grow. The passion and expertise of the school staff is exceptional, and the parents on the Council are fully engaged in the life of the school. Every time I participate in a school event, I am full of admiration and gratitude.

Shirley Seward
Vice-Chair of the Board
Ottawa Carleton District School Board
August 2014
I visited my niece at the school Open House and had a chance to observe lunch, recess, a music and movement class, and an in-classroom activity using the SmartBoard followed by some craft work.  I was really impressed by how engaging the staff was with the students, and how interactive the students were in response.  It was also striking to see all the routines built into the day to work on life skills including toileting and dressing.  Most of all, I was touched to see all the students’ happy smiles. 

- Auntie Deb, July 2014
My daughter is 5 years old and has Global Developmental Delay.  She is non-verbal, needs braces to walk, and requires close supervision to stay safe.  At Clifford Bowey School, she is fortunate to be in a supportive environment where she has opportunities to develop new skills and reach her full potential.  Over the past year, the school has introduced her to the use of picture cards to communicate her needs.  She has progressed to being able to indicate food and activity choices throughout her day.  This has had a huge impact on her well-being both at school and at home.  We are immensely thankful for the teaching and care she receives at Clifford Bowey school.

- Nathalie's Mom, June 2014
The staff at Clifford Bowey Public School have taught our daughter to interact and socialize, amongst other things.  Before, Marie-Helene was all over the place and would not really listen and it was very hard to take her anywhere because of her multiple health issues including Severe Autism.  Now, we are very proud to go out as a family.  This special needs school has developed her independence and raised her self esteem.  It also helps us, as parents, to grow alongside of our daughter.  It is nice to be part of the Clifford Bowey Family.

- Proud Parents, June 2014
I had the opportunity to be a special guest at Clifford Bowey’s annual Remembrance Day ceremony as an Air Force retiree and grandparent of a student.  Each class had crafted a paper wreath for the occasion.  Turn by turn, one student from each class proudly and enthusiastically came forward with their wreath.  It was a very touching tribute to Remembrance Day.

- Grandfather of a Student, November 2013