A program called the Whole Child Program was referred to us by Patrice Berrel, CACL board member and a school principal in Whitehorse, Yukon.

The program is coordinated by Crystal Pearl-Hodgins, Community Coordinator. The purpose of the program is to restructure schools “to best allow for full participation by all and to ensure that every child has every opportunity to meet their full potential. The program recognizes that schools have an active and pivotal role to play in integrating community and services for children and their families.

The African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child” has never been truer than for our community. The challenge was how do we do it. The educational success of our children cannot be assured unless there are concerted efforts made to remove the barriers to learning created by problems that begin outside the classroom walls.

For more information on the Whole Child Program call 1-867-667-8676 or email cphodgin@yesnet.yk.ca.