Purpose Secondary School 3.2

Purpose Secondary School

The Purpose Secondary School provides educational programs to students in grades 9 to 12 in a non-traditional setting. Many students achieve more in a smaller setting that enhances student/teacher relationships.

School staff recognize that students have varied educational backgrounds, have different learning styles and often learn at different rates. In addition, a positive sense of school community plays an important role in providing an atmosphere conducive to learning.

School staff play a key role in encouraging a positive school climate that is physically and emotionally ‘safe’ and promotes learning.


What is special about the Purpose School?

Some students need more than they can get in the public school system. Students who have attended the Purpose School have told us that they need to make a connection to their teachers, receive additional support, be cared about, listened to, not be judged and at the same time be challenged to achieve their potential. They also appreciated the opportunities for a lot of good laughs.

A former student said:
“The sense of community that was created and supported by the staff was a huge draw. Staff and peer relationships weren’t lorded over us. Often in public school, I struggled with power trips with other teachers, while Purpose staff worked hard at connecting with us as people. There was also a ton of personal support. The teachers truly cared and you could really feel that.”

The Purpose School is able to offer individualized learning schedules to meet the needs of student who have work or family commitments. Students on a regular schedule attend one class in the morning and one in the afternoon. This enables students to focus on the work and complete courses more quickly. Fridays are available for special tutoring or individualized instruction.

In order to provide a rounded education, there are many field trips in the community. Students attend events like the symphony, art shows, museums, plays, ballet performances, Science World, skiing, snowboarding, and may end the day/evening with dinner in a nice restaurant. Some of these trips may have a cost; however, every student can attend the events regardless of their financial status.

Former students said:

‘The smaller class sizes and one-on-one time with the teachers helped me. Also teachers with a sense of humour was a plus as well.”

“Smaller classes, which leads to more one-on-one and the personal relationships and care for everybody. The trips are a bonus too.”

“Being genuinely cared for is what makes it special.”

“Teachers who are invested and all students are accepted for who they are. This school shaped me for the real world”.

“The amazing support and no judgement attitude from the teachers. They cared, listened, supported and challenged. Plus a lot of good laughs!”

Diplomas

Students can receive a regular Dogwood Diploma from the Purpose School upon completion of the required course work. This diploma allows access to secondary education programs at the many colleges and Universities.

Students can also receive an Evergreen Diploma which indicates high school completion.

There are special evening classes for adults. The adult student will receive an Adult Dogwood at the completion of this program.

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