Several years ago, we learned of the fine work Pathways to Education has done to support Toronto’s disadvantaged youth – encouraging them to stay in school and to progress on to post-secondary education. A recent report by the C.D. Howe Institute states that Pathways to Education has had a significant effect on high-school graduation rates and postsecondary enrolment. There are currently 11 sites being operated by Pathways to Education; In the Regent Park public housing site, high school graduation has increased by 15% and postsecondary enrolment has increased by 19%. The report states:
The Pathways to Education program is a prominent example of a community-driven, comprehensive youth-support program developed to improve academic outcomes among those entering high school from disadvantaged backgrounds. The program includes mentoring, tutoring, counselling, postsecondary transition assistance, and immediate and long-term incentives for students to excel. After starting at Regent Park in Toronto in 2001/2002, the program has expanded across Canada. In addition to three expansion sites in Toronto, the program has been introduced to locations in Halifax, Hamilton, Kingston, Kitchener, Montreal (two locations), Ottawa, Shawinigan, and Sherbrooke, as well as Aboriginal focused programs in Mashteuiatsh and Winnipeg.
English Central is very happy to be supporting this fantiastic program through a significant book donation. Please visit the Pathways to Education website to learn more about this program, some of its success stories, how to volunteer or to make a donation of your own.