Program Description

Cedar Walk provides a respectful, safe, and culturally relevant environment to address the needs of Indigenous students who have an extended history of non-engagement in school. This program runs with support of our community partner Urban Native Youth Association (UNYA). Cedar Walk provides social, emotional, mental health, and academic support to students through sports and recreation, arts and crafts, Aboriginal cultural enrichment, field trips, life skills, and health information.

Cedar Walk supports Indigenous youth in Grades 10-12. Student progress is managed through the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process which involves the student, caregiver, various stakeholders, and program staff. Cedar Walk is a graduation program provided students meet the Ministry requirements for graduation in either the regular Dogwood program or the Adult Dogwood program. Adaptations and modifications are made where necessary to meet the needs of the students. Academic upgrading and job readiness skills are an integral aspect of the Cedar Walk Program. Support plans are established to meet the needs of the students as they progress into adulthood.

Program Location

Referral Process

Referrals for inter-agency programs require a MCFD Social Worker or Youth Justice referral; school staff do not have direct access to refer students to these programs. 

Referrals are accepted on an on-going basis and reviewed by a MCFD/VSB screening committee to determine eligibility, placement, and priority.