Programs & Services > Counselling > Community Parenting Education (COPE) > Testimonials
COPE success story at John D. Parker Junior School
Letter addressed to Yves Savoie,
FSA Executive Director (Aug. 2003 - Dec. 2006), by Ms. Barbara Adams,
John D. Parker school
principal.
Dear Mr. Savoie,
I am writing to commend the splendid work of the COPE program. As principal of John D. Parker Junior School it has been my privilege to host four sessions.
I am inspired to write today because a grateful parent has just blessed me. Mrs. ....., an immigrant single mother, herself a victim of spousal abuse, dropped by to share her gratitude for the COPE program. Her two young sons had come to my attention earlier in the year. They had been repeatedly involved in fighting, stealing and lying.
At my urging, the whole family has been attending our current COPE session. She reports an enormous improvement in home life. The boys, while still needy, have managed to stay out of the principal's office for a month. Mrs. ........ feels blesses and, in truth, I believe she is. I too feel blessed to have the participation of COPE in my school.
Over our 3 year association with COPE I have noticed several changes:
- There has been a decrease in violent incidents and suspensions.
- Parents have formed friendships through COPE.
- Loving parents who are reported to Children's Aid for physical punishment are immediately provided appropriate alternatives.
- Children come to school more settled and more ready to learn.
- Parents are more eager to cooperate with the school in establishing consequences jointly.
Be assured that this program is working. I recognize the limitations of quantitative data in this situation but I am resolved to count what I can. I am resolved, also, to share the stories that reflect the quality of this program.
Sincerely,
Barbara Adams
Principal.
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