November 15, 2012

PROVINCE PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR AFTER-SCHOOL LEARNING PROGRAM FOR INNER-CITY, ABORIGINAL CHILDREN, YOUTH: ALLAN

The Manitoba government will continue to provide support for successful initiatives that ensure Aboriginal and inner-city students have the supports and help they need to develop a positive identity, increase their academic skills, Education Minister Nancy Allan announced today at Rossbrook House.
“The Learning Always program at Rossbrook House provides a supportive, after-school learning environment where students can get assistance with their school assignments, strengthen their literacy and numeracy skills and access activities that expand their horizons,” said Allan.
The minister announced a total of $21,000 for this ongoing program which aims to provide a multitude of enriching opportunities and support for children and youth in grades 2 to 9.
The Learning Always program offers:

• homework support;
• educational activities such as computer, math and reading games;
• a reading circle;
• a healthy after-school snack;
• traditional teachings; and
• involvement with the arts.

“Children and youth are always learning – not only in school, but in their communities as well,” said Allan.  “Programs such as Learning Always, which emphasize the holistic nature of learning, are the key to ensuring student engagement in learning.”
The minister also noted that Rossbrook House was given an annual $40,000 grant to support three off-site school programs operated in conjunction with the Winnipeg School Division.  This grant will allow Rossbrook house to remain open for extended hours and supports cultural programming, outdoor education, books, and breakfast and lunch programs.
These school programs include:

• Wi Wabigooni – an off-site classroom for grades 3 to 6 dedicated to supporting the Manitoba School Curriculum, providing public-speaking opportunities and preparing the annual Rossbrook house powwow.
• Eagles’ Circle – an off-site classroom for grades 7 to 9 providing individualized programming intended to enhance pride in indigenous culture and provide additional support to students who have had difficulty in school.
• Rising Sun – an off-site alternative classroom for students in grades 10 to 12 providing learning in a small group setting designed to advance cultural experiences, awareness of community issues and skill levels.

Rossbrook House provides over 2,000 Aboriginal and inner-city youth a place of safety 365 days a year, 24 hours a day including weekends and school holidays.  On any given day, Rossbrook House welcomes approximately 100 children and youth who range in age from five to 24 and offers a variety of educational and recreational programs for all ages.

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