Urban Indigenous Secondary School Program

About the Program

The Nogojiwanong Friendship Center Alternative Secondary School Program (ASSP), is also known as Waawiye Kinoomaagzijig (Circle of Learning). The program is for the adolescent who may be having difficulty coping in the present educational system. They may have been out of school for a while and/or needs assistance in returning to the mainstream school system. Students in the program earn credits and work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). The focus is on Indigenous knowledge, Indigenous languages, and land-based experiential learning. 

The goal of Waawiye Kinoomaagzijig (ASSP) is to harness urban Indigenous knowledge systems, community capacity and resources. It provides infrastructure to support the self-determined needs of urban Indigenous learners in obtaining their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Through a trauma-informed, culture based education model, the ASSP supports Indigenous student success. It also supports well-being, fosters positive self-identification, promotes strong Indigenous leadership. It provides learners with the skills, knowledge, attitudes and values needed to fully participate in their communities and society.

Transportation can be supported for students in the Peterborough area.

Students and families can contact their school principal or the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre if they are interested in learning more.