White Pines Supportive Learning Program proves successful

This week’s Algoma District School Board meeting featured a unique presentation. Trustees learned about a successful Supported Learning Program at White Pines Intermediate School. The Developing Alternative Realistic Expectations Intermediate Program began in September — the 13 students experience a schedule similar to a regular school day, with lessons in literacy and numeracy. But White Pines Vice-Principal Sandi Dal Cin says DARE offers more than that…

The students get to cook twice a week in a Foods Lab. They also experience specific hands-on learning opportunities through science experiments and photoshop technology, tech and woodworking in the ‘X-block’ program. In addition to experiencing a regular school day near the Grade 7 and 8 classes at White Pines, occasional teacher Emma Churchill says the group also learns outside of the classroom…

The students also benefit from team-building activities and technology. This is done through different areas for hands-on learning and quieter learning through a ‘Book Nook’ area. Staff and students use iPads, laptops and a digital projector to enhance their learning experience by sharing online books and videos. One student recently read his first book as a result of the program. Algoma District School Board trustees had the chance to hear from students Devin, Mason and Devon at their meeting this past week about their experiences with Supportive Learning. Here’s what they like the most about DARE…

Dal Cin adds that the students also benefit from special guest artists — chances for the Supportive Learning Program to share those experiences with the Grade 7 to 12 student population. She says she would like to see a Supportive Learning classroom in every school in the ADSB, because she feels it is important for every learner have their needs met. This is especially true when the students are put in a group and are given confidence to learn, to see what they can achieve.