“The South Shore Regional School Board (SSRSB) announced in February that its provincial budget targets showed a significant cut in 2012-13 funding – as high as $2.7 million,” states a March 21 press release from the office of the superintendent.
The Queens County middle-level transition program will be at South Queens Junior High School (SQJHS), and the Queens County Alternate Program will be at Liverpool Regional High School (LRHS). Both moves are slated for September 2012.
“Principals have indicated that, in most cases, they are better equipped to offer enhanced programming at their site,” writes Steve Prest, director of programs and student services for the SSRSB.
“We have also hear from students who have first hand experience in alternate settings, that they prefer alternate programming within their schools.”
This isn’t the case for all students, but many have made this clear to staff, adds Prest.
With respect to the Queens County Alternate Program, Prest says, “there are increased program and budget efficiencies as a result of the move.”
He says LRHS has confirmed it is better able to meet students’ needs using resources in the school.
“We expect the students to have a more comfortable, modern leaning environment and increased access to various resources,” says Prest about how the move will change the alternative program.
The press release says the new adult program will be more flexible.
Prest says the program will take place after the regular school day. He says though details haven’t been worked out, there will be more options for students.
“The principal has indicated that more options will be explored and he will offer maximum flexibility to adult programming, which could involve some facility access during the regular school day,” says Prest.
Changes will be looked at next year, but Prest says the middle-level transition program will probably be integrated into the new junior high school, set to be open in September 2013.
The Region of Queens owns the Gorham facility, and the Region will take over the building at the end of the school year if approved by council.
According to the press release, middle-level transition, alternative and adult-education programs will be reviewed again in 2013-14.
