This month, a theme you'll see and hear us talking about is District choice programs. To start out, we are highlighting the Streetfront Alternative program, which has been in operation since 2001. Streetfront was established to provide alternative education and support for at-risk youth, incorporating physical fitness and sports as integral components of its curriculum.
The program and its educators Trevor Stokes, Barry Skillin, and Gord Howie were recently the recipients of the Premier's Award for Excellence in Education for Outstanding Collaboration. The three have worked together for over 20 years with Gord retiring last January. Their exceptional collaboration has resulted in a program that has provided experiential opportunities the students would not otherwise have engaged in. These experiences include marathon running through the Street2Peak program which has taken students on expeditions to Patagonia, New Zealand, Kilimanjaro and Newfoundland.
The Streetfront program, located at Britannia Secondary, goes beyond traditional teaching methods, recognizing the importance of holistic development. Trevor, Barry and Gord work tirelessly to create a nurturing environment where students feel they belong and can thrive. Richard Edge, District Vice Principal of Vancouver Alternate Secondary Schools says of the group, "their innovative approach focuses on fostering resilience and important life skills in students who may have struggled in traditional classroom settings. He adds, "through their commitment and unique methods, they've managed to make a significant impact on the lives of many disadvantaged youth."
Streetfront offers classes three days a week in various subjects for grade 8-10 students. By focusing on personalized attention, smaller class sizes, and alternative teaching methods they cater to individual learning styles to achieve various positive outcomes for students including:
- Academic improvement
- Increased engagement
- Improved physical and mental health
- Enhanced social skills
- Reduced risk behaviors
- Increased graduation rates
Britannia principal Rose Mackenzie has seen that impact firsthand on students at the school, "they gain a sense of accomplishment and self-worth, the ability to dream and realize that anything is possible if they put their mind to it." What Mackenzie admires most about the trio is their sense of camaraderie and respect for each other, "they realized a long time ago that they could not do this work alone, and as a team they are so much stronger and effective in creating an impact on students."
To Mackenzie, the marathons run by Streetfront students clearly shows their support for the program. "They would not engage in such an activity if Trevor, Gord and Barry had not created the conditions for them to believe in themselves" says Mackenzie. "Running and running for such a long distance requires stamina and faith in one's own abilities. That is the gift that the three have instilled in the students."
Richard Edge speaks to how the groups dedication and passion makes them stand out "their commitment to supporting at-risk youth through education, mentorship, and physical fitness is truly admirable. Their empathy, patience, and innovative approaches to education are commendable and make a significant impact on the lives of the youth they serve."
On behalf of the District, thank you Trevor, Gord and Barry, for your unwavering dedication to empowering and supporting at-risk youth and congratulations for being the honourable recipients of the Premier's Award for Excellence. We share our gratitude and appreciation for being a beacon of hope and opportunity in our community.
