ABOUT
MISSION & HISTORY.
Where does the name come from?
We chose to name our achievement center after the dandelion because it symbolizes resilience, hope, and transformation. Despite facing mowing, harsh weather, and other challenges, this resilient weed manages to push through the toughest of environments. Its deep-rooted nature enables it to withstand adversity, rebound, and flourish, even when seemingly unwanted or neglected. As an alternative education facility, we serve students who choose to forego traditional ways of learning, which requires the strength to persevere, adapt, and grow in the face of misconceptions and prejudice.
Vision Statement
Our vision is to create a learning environment where every student can flourish, irrespective of their learning differences, and a future where every young person has access to tailored educational opportunities, enabling them to achieve their career aspirations and contribute positively to society. We envision a world where a fish’s value is not judged by its ability to climb a tree.
Mission Statement
Our Mission is to create a dynamic space where students can work towards their goals and dreams on their own terms with the guidance and help of experienced professionals in an open-minded, inclusive, and affirming environment. We believe that every individual who aspires to pursue a professional career, regardless of unique learning differences and challenges, can achieve their goals, and we are committed to empowering them in their educational journey.
Our Founders
Jennifer Graham OCT
Jennifer Graham has been teaching, high schoolers both in-person and through various online platforms, since 2015. Recognized by her colleagues for her exceptional results reaching students with learning exceptionalities, she has been selected to lead special pedagogical seminars for teachers on a recurring basis through the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Inspired in part by personal experiences homeschooling her own children at both the high school and elementary levels, she has dedicated a significant portion of her career to creating curricula and practical systems to help parents and teachers spark a genuine passion for learning in their students and children.
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Passionate about student-driven and experiential learning, new pedagogical research, and alternative education, Jennifer believes that education should be tailored to the individual needs of every student, and that this is possible both in the homeschooling format, and in the traditional classroom.
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Certified with the Ontario College of Teachers, Jennifer holds Bachelors degrees in English Literature and Education from the University of Ottawa, Canada.
Terri Ann Brennan DSW
Terri Ann Brennan has worked with individuals with developmental and other disabilities in various settings since 2005. Her true calling lies in providing individuals with developmental disabilities with the learning skills and opportunities necessary to enter the workforce and pursue their goals and dreams. She is dedicated to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the tools and support they need to become active participants in society.
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Terri is a certified DSW trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and Person-Centered Therapy. She holds diplomas in Health and Nutrition and Developmental Services Worker from Algonquin College, Ottawa, Canada.
