Welcome to Learning Alternatives
For our students to reach their full potential as caring, self-motivated people with positive self-esteem and high standards.
Our school is a dynamic blend of forward-thinking education and personalized programing. We pride ourselves on individualized academic plans that focus on the students’ strengths and use innovated strategies to help progress in areas that need improvement. Our team is comprised of creative teachers, supportive education assistants, caring child youth and family support workers, compassionate counsellors, and an upbeat administration. Our goal is to guide our students to discover personal success and help them become productive members of our community. We believe in authentic, meaningful experiences that connect our students to the natural world. We work tirelessly to inspire sustainable values and behaviours. The Circle of Courage is woven throughout all of our programs. This model of youth development is based on the principles of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity.
School Goals:
- Innovative instruction and assessment for all students and parents
- Building belonging for our diverse learning community
- Leading land based learning, environmental stewardship and sustainability
- Truth and reconciliation
School Vision Statement:
We develop programs to support youth not only to attend school, but to be participants in their learning, school and community. Learning Alternatives is ever changing each year depending on the needs of the learners.
Hashtag:
#morethanschool
Learning Leader Question:
How can we provide learning that ultimately supports the well-being of the self, the family, the community, the land, the spirits, and the ancestors?
Principal’s Message
Welcome to what will be a fabulous 2024-2025 school year! We as a school staff are excited to help each student achieve goals that will improve their well-being. Each student will work with staff to create a growth, healing, and learning goal for the school year. School staff will work with families and community supports to help students find success with their goals. It is our
mission to allow every student to experience dignity, purpose, and options.
We are passionate about rebranding what education looks like and doing things a little differently. This mindset has allowed our graduating classes continue to grow each year. Last June, we filled our school gym and celebrated 82 graduates. The Graduating Class of 2024 showed us innovative ways to demonstrate their learning and find success with school. This year we look forward to celebrating lots more student success.
I promise each student and family, that we will never, ever, give up on a student. Learning Alternatives is my family and there’s nothing I will not do for family. Keep being awesome.
hay ch q’a siiye’yu (Thank you Friend)
Brett Hancock, Principal
Contact Information
Contact our school directly with the information listed below:
Mailing Address
1270 Strathmore St, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2L9
Direct Information
- Phone: 250-753-6331
- Fax: 250-753-8502
School Information
Quick facts and common information about our school:
- School Principal: Shawn Shahi
- Vice Principal: Chad Jobe
- Secretary: Janet Brocklehurst
- Student Number: 273