Program Description 2006-07

Overview
The Foundations program is for Peel District School Board students between 16 and 20 in grades 9 and 10 who are considered "at risk" of dropping out of school, or who are returning to school with few compulsory credits. Students attending this program are expected to have at least average academic potential and be willing to attend the program. Potential candidates will not usually be identified as exceptional, as their needs can be better addressed in an existing Special Education program in their home school.

The Foundations Program focuses on core compulsory subjects, offered through locally developed courses (English, Math and Science) and applied level courses.

The Foundations Program is a ½ day program. Students normally attend 3 mornings a week and also have the opportunity to come in for additional help. In a semester, students normally achieve 3 credits. If they arrive in the program with 40%+ in grade nine core subjects, there is an opportunity for credit recovery.

Students are expected to begin the required 40 hours of Community Service in their first year in the Foundations Program.

Purpose
The purpose of the Foundations Program is to:
· provide an alternative learning environment for "at risk" students, over 16 with few credits
· provide a supportive learning environment which promotes regular school attendance
· improve social skills and attitudes towards school, and motivate students to complete their education
· provides an opportunity for co-operative education in semester two, following successful completion of the GLD or GLN course in semester one
· provide a transition at the end of the program back to a regular secondary school, to the Senior Alternative programs or to work

Requirements
Students must be currently enrolled in a Peel public school or their last school attended must be a Peel public school.

Students are over 16, require grade 9 or 10 credits and have not been successful in a regular school setting, despite significant interventions.

Students have visited the program, met with the vice principal and are willing to meet the requirements of the program, including regular attendance.

Admission
The home school principal or designate contacts the Peel Alternative School vice-principal to refer the student:
North:
905-455-1225 (fax: 905-455-2985)

South:
905-278-3396 (fax: 905-278-1328)

West:
905-363-0154 (fax: 905-363-0155)

The Peel Alternative School Student Referral Form is sent to the PAS vice-principal with all required documents. This form is available on the Alternative Programs website.

The student arranges, with his or her parent(s)/guardian(s), to meet the vice-principal to discuss the program requirements. The student must bring the following to this meeting, if they have not already been sent to the school:
· status sheet
· transcript
· literacy test results
· community involvement tracking sheet
· IEP, if applicable
· student fee and textbook deposit

If this meeting is positive and there is an opening in the Foundations Program, the student is enrolled.

Demission
Students who do not comply with the Code of Conduct may be withdrawn.

Students who do not attend regularly may be withdrawn. "Regular attendance" is defined as attendance at all scheduled classes. Five unauthorized absences may result in withdrawal. A parent/guardian's call or note should verify any absences for students between the ages of 16 and 18.