Alternative Secondary School Program | ASSP

Description:

The Alternative Secondary School Program (ASSP) offers a culturally enriched learning environment for urban Indigenous students working toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Designed for students ages 15 to 18, the program combines the Ontario curriculum with Indigenous knowledge, language, and land-based learning, all within a trauma-informed and culture-based educational model.

The ASSP supports students who thrive in smaller, supportive classroom settings and who are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively. It is especially suited for students who have experienced challenges in mainstream education and are seeking a more inclusive, engaging alternative.

Please note:

The ASSP is not a treatment or specialized support program. Students who require more intensive services, such as those offered through a Learning and Life Skills (LLS) program or clinical supports, may be better suited to alternative educational settings that can meet those specific needs.

Objective:

The ASSP aims to foster Indigenous student success, well-being, and self-identification through a culturally responsive approach to education. By combining academic learning with cultural teachings and holistic support, the program helps students overcome educational barriers and build confidence, leadership, and life skills.

Program Services:

Culturally Integrated Curriculum: Smaller class size and curriculum enriched with Indigenous teachings, language, and culture.

Wrap-Around Support: Personalized action plans focused on strengths, needs, and personal growth.

Elders and Community Mentors: Access to Indigenous Elders and community members for cultural teachings and experiential learning.

Traditional Practices: Daily smudging, access to traditional medicines, and opportunities to learn from cultural knowledge holders.

Hands-On Learning: Creative and land-based activities such as craft-making (e.g., beadwork, drums, ribbon skirts) and outdoor learning experiences (e.g., planting, gardening, medicine walks).

Field Trips and Workshops: Visits to cultural and historical sites like the Canadian Canoe Museum and Petroglyphs Provincial Park, plus workshops like canning, cooking, and quillwork.

Movement and Healthy Living: Activities such as meal planning, walking groups, and access to YMCA fitness programming.

Participant Services:

One-on-One Support: Individualized academic and wellness from caring educators and support staff.

Post-Secondary Preparation: Assistance with applications, goal setting, and volunteer hour opportunities to support future planning.

Nutrition Support: A hot lunch program and access to monthly food boxes to ensure students have access to nutritious meals.

Outreach Services:

Community Engagement:

Access to a network of Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and local partners for additional cultural and wellness programming.

Health and Wellness Advocacy:

Connections to external services for mental health, nutrition, healthcare, and counseling support.

Eligibility:

The ASSP is open to urban Indigenous youth, ages 15 to 18, who are working to complete their OSSD and would benefit from a culturally grounded alternative learning environment.

Please Note:

Students are encouraged to be engaged with the Wasa-Nabin program prior to applying.

https://nogofc.ca/programs/familychildandyouth/alternative-secondary-school-program/