The statistics are against them. In Quebec, at the age of 19, only 25% of those who leave a placement at the DPJ (Direction de la protection de la jeunesse) will have obtained their high school diploma.
Posted at 1:00 p.m.
This is three times less than for all young Quebecers of the same age1. However, if they continue to persevere, we are forbidden to abandon them.
“When I sit in class, I have so much pain in my heart that I can’t hear when my teacher explains the math. “With their path marked by suffering, the young people of the DPJ leave with a lot of life baggage that is very heavy for their little shoulders to carry.
Schooling remains the best way to ensure a bright future for them. So let’s be behind them to encourage them to persevere on their journey to success! And let’s celebrate each of the victories, big and small, that mark their path.
As part of Hooked on School Days, several activities are organized in the schools of the youth centers and in the life units of the DYP to highlight the efforts made and the steps taken by young people in need of protection. Sometimes these stages are flamboyant. Think about getting a degree, for example. Other times, they are so small that they could almost go unnoticed: “Today you brought all your school effects to class, congratulations! When we know that this little guy will be in court the same afternoon, we realize all the effort made to mobilize his mind to gather notebooks and pencils.
This week, several actions will therefore be taken to highlight school perseverance: a certificate that reminds us in large letters that Jérémie has made an effort worthy of mention; a gift card rewarding the tenacity of Lou who will be able to choose a book to his taste for the first time; a hot chocolate marking the climax of this week of celebration and which warms hearts as much as bellies; words of encouragement written on the bulletin board, which proclaim loud and clear the love of the interveners and the teachers for these damaged children… “You are good. “You are important.” “I admire your determination.” »
Words that resonate like so many hands placed on their small shoulders and which must first and foremost allow them to realize that they are persevering. That through the hardships and their already full baggage of life, they are examples of resilience and courage. Let’s applaud these young people who, despite the suffering and often the horror, go on and on. A week to collectively highlight their perseverance is excellent. Every day would be even better.