Personalized Alternative Education
PAE are a system of educational
alternatives that have grown from the grass roots in each school. They
are distinguished from main stream programming in that they frequently
use an unconventional classroom settings and altered timetables in order to service the individual needs to students.
Most PAE programmes take a holistic
approach to student progress in that we create student programmes with
the entire student in mind (social, emotional, mental, academic).
There is a focus on developing the skill set required for the 21st century learning.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Collaboration across Networks and Leading by Influence
- Agility and Adaptability
- Initiative and Entrepreneurialism
- Effective Oral and Written Communication
- Accessing and Analyzing Information
- Curiosity and Imagination
Richmond Hill High School offers two distinct types of Personalized Alternative Education programmes:
Junior Quadmester Programme
These
are nine-week, two-period courses that run four times per year. This program offers grade 9 and 10 core courses, such as English, Math, Science, Canadian History, Civics, and Careers. The Junior Quadmester programme works on a multi-level, multi grade model, which runs on a reduced class size (maximum 1:16 teacher student ratio). Students who are age appropriate are recommended for the program in a variety of ways, including through the PAE Department Head, the school administration, the School Social worker, the YRDSB, and student/parent consultation. Students must go through an interview process, and admission to the program must be approved by a school administrator.
Work Based Programme (CBE)
This
semester long programme combines work experience with classroom
learning. This programme consists of an in-class component where students
earn core credits, such as English or Math, though other courses may be offered on a case-by-case basis. On the other school days, students can earn up to 3 additional CBE (Community Based Education) credits for completing the required hours and receiving positive evaluations at a job
or volunteer placement that has been approved and inspected by the ALEP teacher. Students who are age appropriate are recommended for
the program in a variety of ways, including through the PAE Department Head, the school
administration, the School Social worker, the YRDSB, and student/parent consultation. Students must go through an interview process, and admission to the program must be approved by a school administrator.