About the Graduation Coach Program for Black Students
The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students is a Ministry of Education initiative designed to provide intensive, culturally responsive support to Black students with the goal of improving their well-being and achievement. The program is entirely voluntary and open to Black students from Grade 9 to 12 and families who wish to access these supports.
Why Do We Need a Graduation Coach Program for Black Students?
As a school board, HCDSB is committed to supporting all students to achieve their full potential. However, we recognize that systemic racism and discrimination are deeply embedded in social, economic, educational and political structures and organizations. This creates systemic barriers that may lead to inequitable outcomes for equity deserving groups, including members of the Black community. One of the key objectives of this program is to create identity-affirming spaces for Black students.
What is the Role of the Graduation Coach for Black Students?
The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students provides individualized supports to Black students and their families with the goal of seeing each student feel safe, supported, accepted, and affirmed. The Graduation Coach acts as a mentor, advocate and adviser for Black students.
The role of the Graduation Coach is to collaborate with school administrators, educators, staff, families, post-secondary institutions, and community resources to support Black student achievement and well-being.
About our Graduation Coach
Akiesha Newton-Williams is a passionate Child and Youth Worker with more than 12 years of experience in education, providing academic and social support to elementary and secondary school students. She has an Advanced Diploma in Child and Youth Work and Behaviour Science. She brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to her role as HCDSB’s first Graduation Coach for Black Students.
The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students at St Francis Xavier
- The Graduation Coach Program for Black Students started in March 2023.
- The Graduation Coach Program Affinity Space is open Monday to Friday and is located in Room 115
- Students will have access to academic resources, technology, nutritional snacks, culturally relevant workshops, field trips, and summer programming
- No sign up is required to access services from the Graduation Coach
To learn more about the Graduation Coach Program for Black Students, please reach out directly to Ms. Akiesha at NewtonWilliamsA@hcdsb.org or Principal Adriano Perusin at PerusinA@hcdsb.org.
Graduation Coach Program for Black Students
