System Alternative Education is a Board-based program that supports Elementary (Grades 6-8) and Secondary (Grades 9-12) students. Programs served by the System Alternative Education include:
- Elementary: Crestwood Gr. 7 & 8, Cardinal Heights Gr. 6-8, Queen Victoria Gr. 6-8 and Elementary Gateway
- Secondary: Crestwood Gr. 9-12, King William Gr. 9-12, Turning Point, James St, SAL and Secondary Gateway
Quick facts about System Alternative Education:
- Total number of programs: 6
- Total number of sites: 5
- Approximate number of students:
The idea of an alternative education program has had its roots in Hamilton for some time. The System Alternative Education Progran began at the Stinson St. School in 1985. The program has seen many changes over the years including name changes but it always maintained that the students came first. In 2003 the program moved to the Crestwood School site on the east mountain where it still services students from the HWDSB.
We are enormously proud of our students. Students leaving our programs can look forward to: a return to their home school to complete Ontario Secondary School Graduation requirements, post secondary training, college or full time employment upon graduation. Our teachers and educational assistants are deeply committed to fostering a climate of student learning and progress. Literacy and numeracy are areas of focus in both our elementary and secondary programs. We also ensure that students feel welcome and are supported in their social and emotional growth. Visit our sites, meet our students, and you will see “a sense of belonging” in action.
If you are interested in one of our programs or would like more information about a program within the Character Networks, please contact us. We take pride in our programs and welcome inquiries.
Steve Oulahen, Principal – Elementary
Chuck Buttle, Principal – Secondary
Mike Brown, Vice Principal