WRDSB\u2019s Choices for Youth Program has been designed using a restorative practices-based approach to meet the needs of students who have been fully-expelled from this school board and every other school in the Province of Ontario. It is a voluntary program. Students and their families must enter into a contract to participate. The program is delivered through a number of experiential approaches, with a strong focus on socio-emotional learning strategies.<\/p>\n
The program emphasizes capacities, concentrating on each student\u2019s positive traits and working to enhance those while building skills to correct behaviours that get in the way of success.<\/p>\n
Students will continue to work towards their OSSD while in the program.<\/p>\n
At present, there is a site in Waterloo and in Cambridge. Each class is capped at ten students, staffed with a teacher and Child Youth Worker. As well, the program includes a Vice Principal. The Choices team works in partnership with many local agencies and community organizations to support student success.<\/p>\n
The length of stay in the Choices for Youth Program is dependent upon the student\u2019s ability to complete the program outcomes. Following completion of the program, the student will re-enter mainstream school, the world of work or community programs. Choices staff will continue to support former students as they transition back to mainstream school.<\/p>\n