New Directions Programs

New Directions is a system-wide response to enable students on limited expulsion access to appropriate programs and services.  This voluntary program provides at-risk students academic and personal management skills to encourage more effective citizens and successful learners. A focus on intervention and prevention strategies targets the individual needs of students in order to enable them to become more effective decision-makers.  Students are encouraged to continue their education while attempting to develop appropriate life skills within a faith-based community environment.

Program Components

Academic

• focus on values and morals in a Catholic context encouraging spiritual growth
• varied instructional techniques and resources to accommodate various learning styles
• emphasis on real life learning with a focus on violence prevention, peaceful problem solving and personal wellness
• opportunity for students to earn up to four credits per semester including a combination of teacher delivered and independent study courses – Learning Strategies/ Personal Life Management  Course – a balance of academic and life management
• individualized learning environment dependent on their courses of study and motivation
• Special Education – IEP accommodations as required.

Intervention Counselling

• the program advocates and engages youth in counselling, social skills development and behaviour management
• the program enables working relationships with all parts of the school system and with other collaborating agencies that provide critical services to youth : Crisis Intervention, counselling, conflict management, problem solving

     Community Support Interface

     Community partners have been engaged in program supports, e.g. :

• Peel Youth Substance Abuse Program – assistance for drug use and addiction
• Helping End Abuse for Life Network – breaking down the wall of violence for teens
• Clear Directions – anti-drug education
• Probation Services – support for court imposed sentences
• Peel Regional Police – youth crime prevention
• Peel Health – promoting healthy choices and relationships
• Peel Children’s Centre – intensive services and family support
• Associated Youth Services of Peel – multi-systemic response and attendance centre
• Rapport Counselling – youth counselling
• Boys and Girls Club of Canada – supports breakfast program
• YMCA – employment skill development
• Peel Youth Village – community liaison

Exit Referral / Re-admission Process

• students exit the program upon successful completion of program expectations
• readmission of the student to regular day school will be reviewed by a Review Committee composed of the Family of Schools Superintendent, day school principal, and administrator of New Directions Program