Find out about Ready-to-Learn Schools

Ready-to-Learn (R2L) Schools is a universal support initiative for all Yukon students. The initiative is based on the understanding that students can only be ready to learn when they feel calm and safe. Before students can learn, we need to support their basic needs.

A key part of the initiative is teacher training in a model called the Neurosequential Model in Education, or NME. This model was developed by brain development and trauma expert Dr. Bruce Perry and is informed by more than 30 years of research.

To date, R2L has been implemented at 14 Yukon schools.

Our goal is for all Yukon schools to join the R2L initiative over the next 3 to 5 years.

Background

The R2L initiative launched as a pilot project at Takhini Elementary School in Whitehorse in 2019. It has had a positive impact on both students and staff.

Selkirk Elementary School in Whitehorse launched the initiative in 2021.

In the 2022–23 school year, R2L was launched at:

• St. Elias Community School in Haines Junction;
• Nelnah Bessie John School in Beaver Creek;
• Grey Mountain Primary School in Whitehorse; and
• Jack Hulland Elementary School in Whitehorse.

Schools joining the initiative

In the 2023–24 school year, the R2L initiative will launch at:

• Hidden Valley Elementary School;
• Holy Family Elementary School;
• F.H. Collins Secondary School;
• Porter Creek Secondary School; 
• St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Secondary School;
• Robert Service School in Dawson;
• Tantalus School in Carmacks; and
• Aurora Virtual School.

In addition, several schools will start the pre-engagement process in the 2023–24 school year.

Learn more about Ready-to-Learn Schools

We have produced 7 information videos about the Ready-to-Learn (R2L) initiative and the Neurosequential Model in Education. You can view them on the Department of Education's YouTube channel:

• Ready-to-Learn Schools in Action
• Ready-to-Learn: Brain development in children
• Ready-to-Learn: The power of relationships
• Ready-to-Learn: What does stress do to our brain?
• Ready-to-Learn: What does Neurosequential mean?
• Ready-to-Learn testimonial: Lisa Evans, Takhini Elementary School
• Ready-to-Learn testimonial: Gary Morgan, Takhini Elementary School