About Us
Mission and Vision Statement
We provide strength based educational programming to a diverse population of learners who require a non-traditional approach to education within a therapeutic and/or alternative setting.
We are committed to:
- Providing safe spaces where all students feel accepted and are valued members of the community;
- Supporting students to realize their potential and take appropriate risks as they work through areas of struggle and need;
- Creating individualized programming and assessment to meet the needs of all students;
- Fostering the development of transferable skills to support successful transitions.
Supervised Alternative Learning (SAL)
Location: all secondary schools, various off-site
SAL is a program designed to assist and support youth between the ages of 14-17 who find it very difficult to attend regular school. Admittance in to this program is suggested through school Principals who have tried other “re-engagement” strategies like “Alt Ed” or a “reduced timetable.” SAL is always third or four on the list of school interventions to reengage the “non-attender”. SAL students can achieve credits through Co-op, Independent Learning Centre booklets, night school or eLearning.
Youth Options (The UGDSB Long-Term Suspension and Expulsion Program)
A student suspended for more than five (5) school days will be referred to a Long-Term Suspension Program. The principal of the school, in consultation with the student’s teacher, will develop a Student Action Plan (SAP) to direct the activities and learning involved in the program. Cooperation with the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) will be sought in developing the SAP. Participation in the recommended program is not mandatory.
Education and Community Partnership Programs (ECPP)
Education and Community Partnership Programs (formally care and/or treatment, custodial and correctional facilities) have also been called Section 23 classes.
The philosophy and expectations of the Ministry of Education regarding educational programs for pupils in government approved care and/or treatment, custodial and correctional facilities is articulated in Policy/Program Memorandum No. 85 issued January 29, 1986. Essentially, this memorandum states that the education of school-aged pupils must not suffer if they are required to attend government approved facilities for care and/or treatment, custodial or correctional needs. As far as possible, these pupils should attend regular or special education classes in local schools. However, in cases where pupils are not able to attend local schools because of their exceptional needs, suitable educational programs that recognize the primacy of care and/or treatment, custodial or correctional needs may be provided by the School Board within the facilities. Arrangements for the provision of such educational programs are developed jointly by the facility staff and Board personnel.
The following ECPP programs are provided through local agencies and the UGDSB:
Gateway and Pathways Classroom
New Way
STARS (formerly OASIS ) – 2 Sites (Orangeville and Shelburne)
Please note: access to these programs is provided through the partner agency and not the UGDSB. For further information, please contact the agency associated with program, or Stephen Gayfer, Principal of ECPP, YO and SAL.