Learning without Walls
When Michelle first came to Reconnect, she was in an abusive relationship and addicted to Oxycontin, in and out of school and working full-time to help her mom pay the bills.
Now clean from drugs, free from her abusive partner and a student at G. A. Wheable Centre, an Adult and Continuing Education school, Michelle says her experience at Reconnect has opened her eyes to a world of possibilities.
“Reconnect has created many opportunities for me. I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the program,” she says.
Reconnect is a Thames Valley District School Board Program that helps disengaged youth, who have left school without graduating, get back on track. Certified teachers and support staff work to create a unique plan for each individual and link them to options at school, work and in the community.
The program helps students graduate high school, learn new skills and even gain real-life experience through work co-ops. Thames Valley District School Board alternative education staff work with approximately 800 students per year.
“The students have to work hard and show commitment to be at Reconnect”, says Jane. “Students are out of school for dozens of reasons, from mental health issues, homelessness, parenting and others. We’re teaching them the difference between wanting to learn, over having to learn.”
With a recent grant from London Community Foundation, Jane is also able to offer students food vouchers. “The London Community Foundation has truly been phenomenal,” says Jane. “Nine times out of ten these students come here on an empty stomach. The Foundation allows me to provide kids with the means to buy food so they are well-nourished and ready to learn.”
Michelle’s new goal is to become a nurse. While that seems far removed from someone who didn’t like math and science, she says; “My experience at Reconnect profoundly changed the direction I was headed and gave me the opportunity to succeed.”