The P.A.C.E. program is set to close at Wallaceburg District Secondary School and Bkejwanong Kinomaagewgamig on Walpole Island.
“We have some very unfortunate news to share with everyone,” said Ken O’Neil, the coordinator of the program, on social media.
“It is with deep concern and regret that we announce the closure of the P.A.C.E. Program, effective March 31, 2025. Our last day at Wallaceburg District Secondary School (W.D.S.S) and Bkejwanong Kinomaagewgamig will be Friday, March 28, 2025.”
O’Neil added: “This unfortunate and difficult decision arises from our funding source, Jordan’s Principle, which is currently prioritizing the processing of Group Request Funding applications for the 2024-25 fiscal year. This has led to a significant backlog of 2025-2026 applications as they focus on supporting additional initiatives throughout Ontario. Jordan’s Principle cannot provide an estimate for when they will begin reviewing applications for the 2025-26 fiscal year. While there remains a possibility for future approval of our funding application, the program’s future remains uncertain. Should funding be secured, the resumption of programming will depend on the employment status of the P.A.C.E. Program staff.”
O’Neil said the Walpole Island First Nation (WIFN) and WIFN Board of Education “made commendable efforts” to secure funding to sustain the P.A.C.E. Program through the end of the school year.
“Unfortunately, these efforts were unsuccessful,” O’Neil said.
“We sincerely appreciate their dedication.”
The PACE Therapists/Counsellors will continue to operate as normal at the Bkejwanong Kinomaagewgamig school and their offices in Wallaceburg and Chatham, O’Neil added.
“Our therapists on staff are funded through the First Nations Non-Insured Health Benefits, which offers up to 22 hours of sessions per year,” he said.
“If you wish to enroll your child with one of our therapists or counsellors, please contact Andrew Thomas, P.A.C.E. Manager, at 519-809-7223 or myself at 519-355-9576. We can complete an intake and discuss which therapist or counsellor would be the best fit for your child.”
O’Neil added: “Our Team and I wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the community support and trust over the years. It has been a pleasure collaborating with you. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.”
The P.A.C.E. Program is a student success initiative directed towards supporting Walpole Island First Nation students who are experiencing various difficulties that affect their success throughout the school year.
More details can be found at https://www.pace-inc.com/.
