What is Community Use of Schools?  This program recognizes the important role that outside groups and organizations play in building and maintaining strong, healthy community networks that provide enriching opportunities for children, youth and families in neighbourhood schools.

How does it work?  Community Use of Schools makes space more accessible and affordable to the community at large, before and after school, in the evenings and on weekends, throughout the school year.  Schools are available for profit and not-for- profit groups.  Access is based on availability of space through an on-line permit application process.

Community Use of Schools Brochure

Our doors are open

Here’s how to apply online

What is a PSI?  Under the umbrella of Community Use of Schools, the Ministry of Education provides special funding on an annual basis to the Board to assist designated schools, based on neighbourhood demographics.  The PSI funding helps to keep the schools open and invite community groups and organizations to use school space long after the school day ends, at no cost, seven days a week, over a full calendar year.

What is the purpose of this initiative?  The initiative promotes use of the school as the hub for the neighbourhood where children, youth and adults can gather to learn and participate in activities offered by community based organizations and groups in a safe and familiar environment. The focus is on fairness and equity of access to activities that promote healthy living.

How many PSIs are there? The PSI began as a Pilot Project in the school year. Currently, Rainbow District School Board has five schools designated under this initiative: 1. Lansdowne Public – Central/Downtown in Little Current Public – Manitoulin Island in Queen Elizabeth ll – Flour Mill in A.B. Ellis Public – Espanola in Adamsdale Public – Minnow Lake in

What are the benefits?  Improves overall student achievement by providing quality, affordable, after-school programs for students, parents and neighbours that is focused on building active, vibrant and healthy communities as a continuum of care within the neighbourhood that it serves  Develops schools as the hub of the community by offering people a place to gather and participate in community activities based on needs and interests of the immediate neighbourhood

What are the benefits?  Gives community organizations the opportunity to expand their programming at no additional costs to the provider or participant  Provides a great opportunity for partnership collaboration among education and community service groups and organizations

Eligibility Criteria  Permit applications are processed through the online system.  PSI permit applications are assigned to the Community Outreach Coordinator for review with the Principal. Approval is based on: Program or activity meets the needs and interests of the immediate neighbourhood and demonstrates a benefit Majority of the participants are from the immediate neighbourhood Has fair, equitable participant access Is a registered charitable organization or operating as a not-for-profit organization

Target Groups  After School Programs and Activities  Child and Youth Programs and Activities  Teen Programs and Activities  Parenting Programs and Activities  Family Programs and Activities  Adult/Older Adult Programs and Activities

Program Activity Focus  Health  Wellness  Food Security  Sports  Fitness  Recreation  Leisure Activities  Family Activities  Leadership Development  Mentorship  Summer Programs  Cultural Interests  Community Interests

Any questions? Contact Information Kathy Longarini Community Outreach Coordinator Rainbow District School Board ext