This book explores the unique phenomenon of public alternative schools in Toronto Canada and
other large urban areas. Although schools of this kind have existed for more than a century
very little has been written about the alternative school movement. These alternatives focus
more on child-centered instruction give many students (and teachers) opportunities to organize
the school differently provide a greater voice for teachers students and parents and engage
students far more with experiential learning. When traditional school structures are failing to
meet the needs of many children and youth there is a rapidly growing need for information and
discussion about alternatives that will encourage their talents and serve their needs. This
book draws attention to the issue of alternative schooling to help make it more accessible to a
wider audience.
