Young Parent Education Program celebrates graduating students
June 13, 2018
GUELPH, Ontario – A unique educational program is celebrating the success of this year’s graduates.
The Young Parent Education Program (YPEP) is offered by College Heights Secondary School, in collaboration with community organizations in Guelph. Now in its sixth year, YPEP runs out of the Shelldale Community Centre’s Youth Room.
The program provides academic support for pregnant teens and teen parents. Students earn credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma while developing an understanding of a healthy family life. Students also expand their parenting and life skills, strengthen their sense of worth and join a community of learning with other young moms.
Students are at the centre every day from 12 to 3 p.m. They are able to bring their children with them and receive child care as needed.
This year there were 12 students enrolled in the program. On Wed. June 13, YPEP teacher Ms. Worgan held a BBQ to celebrate the hard work and perseverance of this year’s graduates. Of the 12 students who are in the program, three are graduating this year. Two of those graduates are going on to college in the fall.
There are many benefits to the YPEP: it allows a flexible environment for students to earn their high school credits, is an opportunity for them to meet others with young children, helps them to identify long-term goals and helps them plan a pathway that is suited for them.
The program runs both semesters. Students complete one credit as a class as well as one or more credit recoveries or independent or eLearning courses.
Community partners involved in the program include Shelldale Centre, Food & Friends, Family and Children Services of Guelph and Wellington, Beginnings Family Services, Guelph CHC, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health, Guelph Public Library, Ontario Early Years Centres, Trellis, YMCA’s Teenage Parents Program, and the Rotary Club of Guelph.
Congratulations graduates!
Categories: News