Additional Supports

Again this year, the Ministry of Education called for Lighthouse Project proposals to create innovative programs to engage at-risk students in the learning process at secondary schools.
Nine projects were approved for our board and they run at seven different locations.  Below is a summary of each project.  Please contact the school principal for more information.

Elmira Living and Work School - Elmira District S.S.

The Lighthouse funding provides a teacher for this program which allows EDSS to expand an existing program from 61 to 75 students.  Traditionally these Mennonite students have not received formal education past grade eight.  This program’s flexibility meets the needs of this community and opens the doors for graduation from grade twelve.

Fast Forward Bridging Transition - Sir John A Macdonald S.S.

Some students who are transitioning from grade 8 schools into our grade 9 Fast Forward (essential level) Program have historically experienced challenges.  The Child and Youth Worker (CYW) coordinates to ease their transitions.  The students work with the CYW to enhance their success at secondary school. 

Integrated Technology and Math - Galt C.I.

This is an integrated pathway for workplace students which provides credits in Technology, Math, English, Exploring the Workplace and Co-operative Education courses.  Students are encouraged to take a second Technology credit semester 2 focusing on an area of interest.  Students are also encouraged to explore OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) in grade 12.

Success Centre - Bluevale C.I.

This is an alternate program for at-risk students who are not experiencing success and falling behind in credit accumulation in the regular classroom.  The goal is for them to earn up to 2 credits through credit recovery, 1 credit through GLD (Discovering the Workplace) and up to 3 credits through co-operative education in the semester. 

The Career Explorations/Integrated Services Model - Forest Heights C.I.

This program provides flexible programming and services for high-risk students with multiple diagnosis and/or severe challenges.  A school-based Integration Services Worker was hired to provide ongoing social and emotional support for these students, and coordinate common meetings between all community agencies providing support to these youth.  The Job Coach provides placement support, and provides individual students with interview feedback and improvement strategies.  There are about 50 students attempting credits through this program.

The New Horizons - Immigrant Youth Program - Forest Heights C.I.

The school is a designated English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) Magnet program site within the WRDSB.  The school is committed to providing a comprehensive ESL package for students focused on both language development and skill development across a variety of disciplines.  The funding provides additional support to the students through an educational assistant.

The Reintegrating - Engaging Connecting program - Forest Heights C.I.

This project focused on creating a space where high-risk youth can go to learn skills, receive support and remain connected to school, while dealing with issues that may otherwise result in them being suspended.

Workplace Essentials and U-Turn - Adult and Continuing Education

The Workplace Essentials Program has expanded to include a second component, called the U-Turn Program.  This 5-week, module-driven course was designed to assist Early School Leavers and/or Limited Expulsion students in developing a plan for their future.  This program serves as an excellent preparation program for the existing Workplace Essentials Program or excellent stepping-stone back into mainstream programs.

Success In Media - Eastwood C.I.

"Success In Media" is a communication based internship program. With an
emphasis on Radio Broadcasting, students will earn valuable skills in verbal
communication, presentation techniques, and script writing. "SIMs" goals are
the following:

• to re-engage students in the learning process;
• to increase the student's self-esteem within the school setting and
  in their daily lives;
• to motivate students to attend;
• to be punctual and meet deadlines.