Abbotsford, BC – While the journey through school is relatively stable for the majority of students in Abbotsford and BC, some students face extraordinary challenges. Yet despite those circumstances, they still manage to succeed. The Abbotsford School District has produced short videos profiling the remarkable stories of two such students.
“Karly” is a graduate from the district’s Reach Program, which operates through Bakerview Centre for Learning. The staff supports students in variety of nonconventional settings; students receive their education in a very personalized manner which responds to their very unique life circumstances. As a consequence, students develop strong bonds with the staff who are assisting them, and realize success beyond what they thought they could achieve. Similarly, “Zach” graduated in June 2015 from Bakerview Centre for Learning after experiencing difficulties at previous schools, and some significant challenges outside of school. Supported by caring teachers and administrators, he ended up graduating, receiving an award, and has since moved on to productive employment.
“We wanted to tell the story of a few of these remarkable students,” says Superintendent Kevin Godden. “Along with Karly’s and Zach’s resilience and determination, their success is a testament to the support and care provided by the teachers, staff and administrators in the Abbotsford School District, and especially in this case, at Bakerview Centre for Learning. I think these videos will open the eyes of viewers who may not realize the extent of support some of our students receive, and the resulting success they achieve. We are proud of Zach and Karly, and all our students who triumph over difficult life challenges.”
Zach’s video story can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/141221484
Karly’s video story can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/141221483
