ABLE and SALEP Programs
ABLE Program
The ABLE program (Alternative Behaviour Learning Environment) is a short-term program for students from grades 7 to 12. Access is through referral by the Special Services Counsellors in consultation with the home school Principal and approved by the ABLE Vice-Principal under the supervision of the Superintendent. Students suspended for six or more days are eligible for this program. As part of the UCDSB’s pyramid of interventions, a student with a history of suspensions may be referred to ABLE as a diversion measure to avoid another suspension. Students continue working on academic assignments provided by the home school. In addition, there is an individual cognitive behavioural skill building component. Each student has an individualized plan that is shared with his or her school at the completion of the ABLE program.
SALEP Program
SALEP, Supervised Alternative Learning for Excused Pupils, is a program under the Education Act for students aged 14 to 17 who are not successful or engaged in the traditional learning environment. It provides an opportunity for parents to apply for their child to be excused from mandatory attendance while employed in the community. Plans are individualized and the student is responsible to secure employment, apply to his/her school principal, and present to a SALEP committee for approval. Assistance and information, and monitoring throughout the process is provided by Board personnel and the student is maintained on the TR Leger register.