Changing Course: New S+L documentary premieres Saturday

Kris Dmytrenko

March 13, 2009
Scenese from Changing Course: A Catholic project for city schoolsGang violence and intimidation are no longer confined to inner-city school—increasingly, they have infected suburban neighbourhoods. Residents of Malton, Ontario have been shocked to find their own youth getting caught in the crossfire. Nearby Fletcher's Meadow, an area within Brampton, runs the risk of developing similar problems due to rapid construction that outpaces community services.
In response, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board developed an ambitious vision to support at-risk youth. Among those benefiting is Chinel, a shy Grade 7 student whose high school mentor hopes to prepare him for adolescent pressures. Then there's Latasha, a Grade 8 feeling conflicted between her popularity and her conscience. Finally, we meet the young cast of an anti-gang film directed by the high school communications teacher. The protagonist is played by Eddie, whose real-life temptations mirror those of his lawless character.
This new S+L half-hour documentary follows these students for one school year, revealing their challenges, victories, and the limitless potential of Catholic education.
Changing Course: A Catholic project for city schools premieres Saturday night at 9:30 PM (EST).