Jane-Finch's Caring Village

http://www.yorku.ca/yfile/archive/index.asp?Article=6876

Jane-Finch's Caring Village "Promoting Excellence" program is a continuation of its work that establishes a year-round system of supports for high school age youth to help them reach their academic and social potential. Promoting Excellence has proven to be an exemplary alternative education model that brings together community organizations and educational institutions to support youth to achieve academic success and develop their leadership capacity.

A partnership with the TDSB and York University, youth entering grade nine earn a full credit towards their OSSD by completing a 6-week summer program as well as a General Learning Skills (GLS) homework club through the school year. It focuses on improving literacy and numeracy skills and providing recreation and enrichment activities.

Older high school age youth also build leadership and mentorship skills with part-time employment as Peer Mentors in the program. The 2007 summer program had a 91% success rate, with 63 of 69 students completing the half-credit GLS course. In the 2007/2008 school year, 105 youth completed the in school support program and obtained an additional half-credit towards their OSSD. In 2008, 96 of 101 participants completed the summer program. Since receipt of YCF funding, 35 youth have gained summer employment as Peer Mentors. In the 2008/2009 school year, 20 youth stayed on in part-time positions.