ONFC Annual Report

URBAN ABORIGINAL ALTERNATE
HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
Report Contributor: Robert Jerome
Program Description:
The program offers standard Ontario Secondary School curriculum to youth from 16 to 21 years of age such as; cultural
programming (cultural credits); promotes Indigenous student success; and provides an alternative learning environment for
Indigenous learners wishing to obtain their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
How we adjusted our Program to deal with COVID-19:
At the beginning of the pandemic our program was moved remotely. We as a group met on a daily basis through Google Meet.
Our program ensured that each student who required internet technology would have access to these items, from Chrome
Books, tablets and mobile hot spots. Weekly staff meetings with teachers, school social workers and myself occurred to
discuss student concerns and how best to support students.
Partnerships:
• Cultural Resource Coordinator from the Centre to share traditional teachings and resources to students.
• Our program continues to work with Carleton University and the mentorship program.
• Ontario Works Enhanced Youth Assistance Program (EYAP) Lead Case worker assists and supports students through the
Ontario Works process.
• Ottawa Carleton District School Board provides teachers, curriculum and other supports to students.
Success
Story:
Our students continued to thrive despite the shutdown. This was due in
part to continuous contact through texting, video, and in-person meetings,
that were socially distanced. We continued as a class throughout the
shutdown and also reached out to those students who dropped off the
scene and reengaged with them to continue in the program.
Key Highlights of Program:
• Staff were supportive of the graduates and we met them in-person by providing a socially distanced drive-by graduation
ceremony to wish them congratulations on completing high-school.
• Delivering NDN taco kits to students on National Indigenous People’s Day.
• Each student received tools, such as tablets, to ensure the learning process continued.
Statistics:
• Our program had 12 students who graduated with their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
• 68 credits were completed successfully.
• 2 students moving to post-secondary institutions and 3 moving to work place settings.
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