Welcome to our small school that offers three distinct programs at three different locations for students who have experienced difficulty attending a traditional secondary school. OASIS Arts and Social Change Program delivers an arts-based and social justice curriculum based on evidence which demonstrates that student achievement is heightened in schools that provide high quality arts education. OASIS Triangle is a unique program that offers programs for LGBTQ students who are able to work independently with some guidance. OASIS Skateboard Factory offers courses with a skateboard and street art focus where students earn credits by operating a socially responsible entrepreneurial business.
The Arts and Social Change Program
At the ASC, teachers deliver an arts-based and social justice curriculum based on evidence that demonstrates that student achievement is heightened in schools that provide high-quality arts education. Through visual, media, and performing arts and equity education, our teachers plan exciting projects to help you earn credits. Teacher encourage students to think critically and empathetically about the world around them.
Interesting Feature
Changing Ourselves & Changing the World
Students struggle in schools for a range of reasons. Oasis provides a safety net for students who want to experience success. At our 3 sites, we create highly individualized programs where students progress at their own pace through a curriculum that reflects the reality of their lives. We have found that once they begin to make positive changes, it becomes possible for them to look at ways to make changes in the world around them.
More Information about Oasis Alternative Secondary School
The Oasis Skateboard Factory
At OSF courses are offered with a skateboard and street art focus. Students earn credits by operating a socially responsible entrepreneurial business where they learn to build skateboards, design original graphics, work with local artists, market and display their own work and receive honorarium at the same time.
The Triangle Program
Unique in Canada, we offer academic and applied level programs for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBT) students who are able to work independently with some guidance. Our program covers LGBT history, literature, and issues as well as a lunch program, class field trips, access to LGBT community events, and co-op education.
Small Classroom Setting
Each of our programs is located outside of the traditional high school setting. Our small locations (with 1-3 classrooms only) are designed to let students develop important relationships with their peers, teachers, and support staff. Small settings also allow us to work with students to listen carefully to others before articulating their own point of view.
Culturally Relevant Curriculum
Imagine learning from teachers who know you well and can help you succeed. At Oasis students work alongside teachers who mentor, monitor, and teach them their core subjects. All our group classes focus on culturally relevant curriculum and methods of teaching that value who students are and where they've come from.
Additional Features
- No Art Portfolio Necessary at ASC
- Student Support Counselors
- Strong Outreach to Local Artists
- Second Chances to Succeed
- Nutrition Program
- Advocacy for Parent Involvement
- Community Mentors Partners & Tutors
- Financial Assistance for TTC
Student Life - Where You Belong
"It's a kind, understanding, straight-up truthful school which makes you feel like home, and helps you get back on track." Oasis Student
The Arts and Social Change Program, the Oasis Skateboard Factory, and the Triangle Program of Oasis Alternative feature many activities that involve and interest students. We offer a unique blend of opportunities to engage in the surrounding community whether it is in social issues and the arts or with the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community or in projects related to skateboarding and local agencies.
Depending upon which of our three Oasis programs you attend, you will have opportunities to:
- Participate in street theatre
- Perform on stage
- Participate in political rallies
- Visit and talk with tattoo artists
- Meet politicians & famous Canadians
- Learn from community activists and local artists and authors
- And so much more...
Wherever you are at Oasis, you will learn to value your own uniqueness and rely on it to participate proudly in the world around you.
What Sets Us Apart
"I began to search for an alternative school that didn't condemn kids because of past failure or bad choices and Oasis couldn't have done better in making someone like feel welcome." Oasis Student
At Oasis, we believe in second chances. Our students are able to focus on regaining school success in a supportive, safe, and respectful community. Working with dedicated teachers and student support staff gives each student the attention needed to succeed. We support each student in improving their attendance, behavior and academic progress. The community partners and local artists we work with at Oasis reflect the racial, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds, gender, sexual orientation, and abilities of our students. Teachers stay in regular contact with parents so that we can help students move towards their goals.
Parent and Community Engagement
Oasis maintains the Arts and Social Change Program at the Brant Street location, the Oasis Skateboard Factory at the Scadding Court Community Centre, and the Triangle Program at the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. Each program has its own Parent and Community Council that convenes several times a year. Call for dates for upcoming information sessions.
