Program Description - Grades 9-10 2006-07

Overview
The Intermediate Alternative Program is for students of compulsory school age, in grades 9 and 10, who are considered to be “at risk” of dropping out of school. The program is strongly student–centered and offers small class sizes with much individualization. Potential candidates are students whose school performance has suffered dramatically for a combination of reasons including attendance problems, school avoidance, victimization, personal/family crisis and chronic social and/or emotional stress. Students attending this program are expected to have at least average academic potential and exhibit a willingness to attend. Potential candidates will not usually be students identified as exceptional as their needs should be addressed in existing Special Education Programs and/or Behaviour Programs.

Locations
Peel Alternative School North: 315 Bartley Bull Pkwy, Brampton

Peel Alternative School South: 1239 Lakeshore Road East, Mississauga

Purpose
The purpose of the Intermediate Alternative Program is to:
· provide an alternative, non-threatening, learning environment for young, “at risk” students
· provide learning activities designed to take advantage of the student’s individual needs
· develop skills and knowledge commensurate with abilities and interests
· provide a supportive environment, which will promote regular school attendance
· improve social skills and attitude toward school and society, and motivate life-long learning
· provide students with an opportunity to continue their education through successful re-entry into regular school, or transition to other Alternative Programs

Admission Requirements
The Alternative Programs Admissions Committee (APAC) determines the suitability of candidates for the program. The committee meets monthly to consider admission to those students who:
· are referred by their home school principal
· are currently enrolled in a Peel public school
· are in grades 9 and 10
· are under the age of 16
· have average or above average academic potential
· exhibit negative perceptions about self and schooling
· have demonstrated poor school performance
· have visited the program, indicate a willingness to attend, and have the support of their parents

Students with significant behaviour concerns are not appropriate candidates for this program.

Admission Process
The following outlines the process for admission:

a) The home school principal identifies potential candidates for referral to the program through the I.S.R.C. (In-school Review Committee). All in-school interventions have been explored including consultation with/referral to PSSP staff.

At this point, principals are encouraged to discuss potential candidates with the vice principal at Peel Alternative School (PAS) (see contact information).

b) The recommendation of the I.S.R.C. is discussed with the parent(s)/guardian(s) and student.

c) If the parent(s)/guardian(s) and student indicate an interest in the program, the parent(s)/guardian(s) contact the PAS vice principal to arrange a visit. This visit must occur prior to the APAC presentation.

d) Should the parent(s)/guardian(s) decide to apply, the home school principal (or designate) fills out the Student Referral Form* and submits it to the chair, Alternative Programs Admission Committee. Completed referral forms must reach the chair (the vice principal listed below) one week prior to the Alternative Programs Admissions Committee (APAC) meeting.

e) The home school principal co-ordinates the presentation of information to the Alternative Program Admissions Committee (APAC).

f) A home school administrator presents to APAC, along with appropriate support staff (psychology, social work) when they have been actively involved with the student.

g) The decision of the Alternative Programs Admissions Committee (APAC) is communicated to the principal of the home school within 5 days, who will advise the parent(s)/guardian(s) and applicant. A letter is sent to the parent(s)/guardian(s) confirming the decision.

Demission
Students not benefitting from the program may be demitted when:

a) The student of concern is reviewed at the PAS ISRC meeting.

b) IAP staff, school administration and PSSP staff (when involved) have met with and discussed concerns with the student and parent(s)/guardian(s).

c) The home school principal, teacher and other appropriate school personnel have been advised of serious concerns.

d) The student, parent(s)/guardian(s) and home school administration are notified that a recommendation for demission will be made to the Alternative Programs Admissions Committee (APAC).

e) This recommendation for demission has been reviewed and approved by the Alternative Programs Admissions Committee (APAC).

*Student Referral Forms are available on the Alternative Programs Support Services website.

Contact Information:
Grade 9/10 program: North - Phone:905-455-1225 FAX: 905-455-2985
Grade 9/10 program: South - Phone 905-278-3396 FAX: 905-278-1328