Portage’s educational program stands as a unique model that integrates academic achievement with therapeutic recovery. The program offers a specialized learning environment where residents receive individualized attention and support during class. Unlike traditional educational institutions, Portage’s integrated school program acknowledges the complex challenges the residents face and adapts its teaching methods accordingly. The program maintains high academic standards while providing the flexibility and understanding necessary for students undergoing therapy.
What follows is an interview with a 14-year-old resident currently in therapy at Portage Lac Écho. The name of the resident is omitted for privacy reasons.
Q: How did you come to Portage?
I was really struggling with substance use and mental health. I had my first drink when I was 10 years old, and it was downhill after that. I didn’t really want to live and ended up in the psychiatric ward. During my hospital stay, I took a test (green-yellow-red levels) to assess my substance use, and I tested really high in the red zone. The hospital referred me to Portage. I spoke with the admission intake officer at Portage on the phone while in the hospital, and they had a spot for me in less than two weeks. I started August 27th, I’ve been here for a little over two months.
Q: How is your therapy going so far?
I’m doing really well now. It was hard at first not knowing anyone, but it’s improving. I feel like I’m able to warm up over time. It’s important to have a support system, and I have that here. I’m close with several residents. I’m the youngest in the community, at 14.
Q: Tell us about your educational background before therapy?
I went to a prestigious school in Montreal. There was a lot of pressure to do well from my family. Though I performed well academically without much effort, I struggled with the pressure. The school environment was challenging with many tests and assignments, and I didn’t connect well with the teachers. Also, the pressure to live up to my parents’ expectations and be as good as my older brother was very hard for me.
Q: What do you like most about the school at Portage compared to other institutions?
The classes are very small – sometimes just two people or even one-on-one. We have five periods of school a day. The teachers at Portage care more about us and our success and understand our therapy journey. There’s less pressure, and if I mess up, they take the time to help me without judgment.
Q: What classes do you have at Portage?
We have math, art, writing, history, and other subjects. We have five periods a day with a lot of time spent with teachers. The teachers make learning more interesting, especially history. They use slideshows and videos instead of just talking in front of the board, which makes it more engaging.
Q: How do the teachers adapt their methods to help you learn?
They provide extensive one-on-one time and are patient with our learning process. They offer various tools, like computers for students with reading and writing difficulties. As a visual learner, especially in math, I appreciate how they accommodate different learning styles.
Q: Does school help you progress in your therapy journey?
Definitely. The staff from the therapy program collaborates with our teachers. They regularly communicate about our progress and are flexible with academic schedules when needed. Unlike regular school, they prioritize actual learning and understanding over just passing tests.
Q: Do you have a dream or ambition for your future studies?
I’ve always wanted to be a lawyer, specifically a criminal defense attorney. I want to study criminology and go to Harvard Law School. I know it’s a huge dream, but I can see it happening. I’m also very interested in the military, particularly the Air Force. Though they’re different paths, both share the common goal of helping people and bettering society.
Portage’s educational program effectively combines therapeutic recovery with academic achievement. The program succeeds by maintaining strong academic standards while offering the understanding and flexibility residents need for their recovery and growth.
Through small class sizes, individualized attention, and close collaboration between teachers and therapy staff, Portage school program creates an environment where every resident can heal, learn, and dream big.
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