UGDSB Launches Day School for Youth Battling Addictions

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UGDSB Launches Day School for Youth Battling Addictions

Students in need of support for substance use now have a welcoming new resource. A new alternative day school is about to open at the Grove Hub located on Woolwich Street in Guelph. This initiative is tailored for students from the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) in Grades 8 through 12 who are facing challenges with mental health and addiction.

Overview of the Program

This day school is a collaborative effort between UGDSB and the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington. The aim is to establish a safe and inclusive educational environment, according to UGDSB spokesperson Megan Sicoli.

Objectives and Structure

Create a supportive learning space for students battling addiction.
Provide academic guidance along with mental health resources.
Assist students in overcoming barriers to educational attendance.

Students will have the opportunity to earn school credits while receiving necessary support. During a special education advisory committee meeting on December 10, UGDSB administrator April King announced the launch of this innovative program. The school responds to the recent closure of Portage, a youth addiction rehabilitation center in Elora, which previously housed five full-time UGDSB teachers.

Transitioning Back to School

At the Grove Hub, students will benefit from both therapeutic and academic support. The program seeks to ease the transition back to traditional schooling. King highlighted the importance of addressing lingering effects from the COVID pandemic, noting that many youth have become isolated.

Flexible Learning Options

To facilitate a gradual reintegration, students may initially attend for short periods, working on social skills alongside therapy. As they become more comfortable, they will shift to a hybrid learning model that includes time at the Grove Hub and classes at their home schools.

In addition, for those in Wellington County, remote learning options are being considered. For instance, students from Palmerston may attend the Grove Hub virtually while connecting with classes in Guelph.

Conclusion

UGDSB aims to ensure accessibility across the region, making it clear that support is tailored for students in need. For further inquiries, contact [email protected].