Overview

This is a transitional program to help students successfully transition into the school environment following a period of low- or non-attendance due to mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression. It blends academic and social-emotional learning in a small group environment. The initial offering constitutes a pilot project.

Outcomes

The intended outcomes focus on building the skills necessary to thrive in the classroom.

• Establish routine by attending a scheduled educational program.
• Build classroom stamina.
• Engage in social-emotional learning activities.
• Bridge academic skills in preparation for a return to the public school environment.

Programming

Schedule – 1:30-3:30 pm, Monday-Friday.

• Every second Friday is reserved for meetings with parents, one-on-one with students, and other stakeholders.

Class Size – Minimum 3, maximum 5

Grade range – 8-11

Academic Programming – One of the main challenges with returning to school is having fallen behind one’s classmates. To mitigate this challenge, students will work asynchronously in a shared classroom environment on material individualized to their learning needs. For those that need to boost their foundational skills, Amal will provide a package targeting core subject skill development (i.e., literacy and mathematics). Those that have maintained a connection with their zoned school will also have the option to pursue distance learning, such as through Google Classroom or CDLI.

Holistic Programming – Since academics are seldom the reason why a student disengages from school, we recognize that a more holistic program is essential to building a bridge back to the classroom. Students will have opportunities to access programming such as music, video, art, horticulture, STEM enrichment, and pop-up wellness and enrichment events.

Staff – The classroom will be overseen by a qualified Teacher plus one Child and Youth Worker. The Teacher will oversee instructional needs, while the CYW function as a flexible social-emotional support, responding to needs as they arise and facilitating extension activities (e.g., school visits). Therapeutic extensions will be delivered by staff with a variety of professional backgrounds.

Program Length – Enrollment will be for two-week periods. There is no cap on the total length of time a student may spend in the program, but the goal throughout will always be to return to the school setting.

Fees – The cost for the program is $450 per week. This covers direct instruction, preparation time, communication and meetings, materials, and administration.

Contact

For additional information or to refer a student, please contact ddwyer@amalnl.ca