Alternative
Eagle's Circle
The Eagles’ Circle is an off campus program of Hugh John Macdonald School. The
program, located at Rossbrook House, 658 Ross Avenue, serves a maximum of 25 Aboriginal students who are academically able, but who have lower skills due to nonattendance.
The program offers individual programming in reading, writing and small classes in geography,
science, Native studies, crafts and health.
Elementary Alternative Education
The Alternative Education program features multi-aged groupings, student-centered, activity-based thematic learning and a high level of parental involvement. Alternative programs are available to elementary students in Grades 1 to 6 in the Division. The Alternative Education Program is open to all students who are eligible for regular education in the Division. Children who are accepted into this program should show evidence of self-motivation; be socially/emotionally well-adjusted and demonstrate an ability to work independently in an activity-based, multi-level class.
Each classroom has a grade span of two or three years. The subjects studied are in accordance with Manitoba Education curriculum guidelines. Parental involvement is an integral part of the program.
The following schools offer the program: Laura Secord, Luxton, Rockwood, Wolseley, Earl Grey, Lord Selkirk, Isaac Brock and Riverview. Other schools in the Division may have structured similar programs to serve their population.
Flexible Learning
The Flexible Learning program is the junior high level extension of the Elementary Alternative Education program and is available at Churchill, Elmwood, Gordon Bell, and Grant Park.
Rising Sun
This is a satellite alternative program run by Gordon Bell High School to provide academic
programs based on the needs of Aboriginal students.
Songide' Ewin
Songide’ewin, is an off campus program of Niji Mahkwa School and is located at 484
Selkirk Avenue. The program operates under the supervision of the Principal and Vice-Principal
of Niji Mahkwa School.
The Songide’ewin Alternative Program serves Grades 9 - 12 Aboriginal students who have
attendance difficulties and whose educational needs are not able to be met in a regular program. The program provides individualized programming and instruction for students based
on their educational/social need and abilities.
There is cultural and linguistic opportunities made available for students. The Cultural Team
and Songide’ewin make arrangements for teachings, ceremonies and experiences.
Winnipeg School Division has assumed funding responsibilities for Songide’ewin and there
are funding partnerships with community organizations for special components of the program
such as bus tickets and nutrition.
Wi Wabigooni
Wi Wabigooni is an off campus program of Victoria-Albert School. The objective of
the program is to provide an alternative off-site classroom to meet the educational needs of
Aboriginal students in Grades 3-6.
The program focuses on academics with an emphasis on language arts and math. The students work individually and in small groupswith consistent, available adult support and
intervention. There is a cultural and activity base to the program which enhances belonging and
confidence.
Wi Wabigooni receives referrals for students who are academically able and who have often
had a history of absenteeism or many school moves and thus may be alienated from the large
school institution. Referrals are received from schools, parents and community groups.
