Program Description

The Pinnacle Outreach Program (POP) focuses on addressing the complex needs of students who have been disengaged from a school setting for an extended period. POP provides life skills and academic programming to students in Grades 8-12 who otherwise would not be accessing any educational programming. 

POP staff primarily meet students once a week at the POP portable located on the site of John Oliver Secondary School or at the Central Branch of the Vancouver Public Library. However, depending on the student’s situation and the current POP schedule, staff may meet students at other locations in the community. In class, students work at their own pace in a one-to-one or very small group setting. Additionally, depending on individual student interests, POP staff may engage students in community-based activities, such as recreation and work experience. Staff can also help facilitate meaningful connections to health care.

The student's education is managed through the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process, which involves the student, caregiver, various stakeholders, and program staff. POP staff will work to transition students to Alternative and/or mainstream school opportunities once they develop the confidence and skills to succeed.

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.