Is it right for my kid(s)?
The OCDSB has a number of Alternative Schools - people have asked my thoughts regarding their role in the OCDSB program offerings. This is a question that I must admit to having had a change of heart about over the years. Allow me to explain.
My Response
When my children were young and decisions about schooling options were being discussed in my social network, I could not understand the need for alternative schools. I really thought that it may have been an interesting construct but I couldn't seem to justify the cost involved in offering these programs. An interesting thing happened called life.
I have two children, a boy and a girl, they are only one grade apart in school and as learners, they could be no further apart in their style of learning or preferred forms of interaction with curriculum and school in general. I don't believe that it is a product of gender in this case but of a true difference in learning style and preference. Likewise, when my daughter started in our local dance school at age 3, I soon realized that neither she nor I were cut out for the traditional dance school culture.
We went on to find a remarkable alternative for her and as my daughter nears completion of her high school years, she is considering pursuing dance and choreography at university - an option that I firmly believe would have never manifested itself if we had not had access to a program that was alternative to what works for the majority. So, what does this mean for my opinion about alternative schools? It means that the older, wiser me realizes that alternatives are important. That for some families and for some children, the option to do school slightly differently is important and necessary.
We as trustees of education need to ensure that, within budgetary reason, options remain available for those who need or choose them. (On a personal note, I am thrilled that Regina P.S. was able to find new life as an alternative school in my neighborhood - my children's father attended Regina as a wee tot!)
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