3. At that time, people were quite disillusioned and overwhelmed with the whole Reform process, so there would need to be buy-in to the whole process of Reform before something like this could work effectively.

Best Practice #2

Recent history

Kathy reported that since the introduction of Program Reform, the number of students had dropped from 108 to 55. She indicated that most classes had been structured around "lifestyle" management/issues, and there had been no entrance requirements. However, with the introduction of minimum level requirements, many of the students did not meet Level 1 Criteria; therefore, there wasn't a place for them.

Kathy also reported that there has been a lot more paperwork as a result of LBS Program Reform and that staff are not paid for the increased workload (e.g., not paid for completing progress reports). This has contributed to the stress levels of the staff.

Finally, Kathy indicated that there have also been quite a few staff changes, which has negatively affected the level of communication within the organization.

Best Practices and resources

Kathy reported that the school board was now offering two programs in partnership with Community Living Association. The school board works with volunteers from Community Living to help instruct adults. Kathy indicated that, because many of the learners do not meet the minimum Level 1 requirements, volunteer literacy tutors are no longer available.

In the first program, volunteer tutors from Community Living Association help instruct pre-Level 1 adults in established Level 1 classes. In the second program, the pre-Level 1 class operates at the same time as the Level 1 class, but in a different classroom.

Kathy indicated that this best practice is specifically targeted at pre-Level 1 adults with developmental challenges who might not otherwise obtain learning opportunities. She said the program represents a strong working relationship between the school board and the Community Living Association.

Kathy reported that, on a scale of 1 to 5, the combined classes program was a 4 (good) and the separate classes program was a 5 (excellent).

Best Practice #3