About

Prairie Hope High School (formerly known as Neelin High School Off Campus/BSD Off Campus) is an initiative of the Brandon School Division that opened its doors in September of 2007.  

We offer an alternative and unique school setting for students who are at risk of discontinuing their education for a variety of reasons, or for students looking to re-engage with their education after a period of absence. Our unique context works best for students who are self-directed and benefit from a flexible approach to scheduling.  

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Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Prairie Hope High School?

Prairie Hope High School is an alternative school setting for students who are at risk of discontinuing their education for a variety of reasons. Students are self-directed and work at a more flexible pace. Our course requirements and curricular outcomes are the same as other Manitoba High Schools. 

Who can attend Prairie Hope High School? 

Many of our students are 18-21 years old. As young adults, these students may self-register, but are always welcome to bring a parent, guardian, or trusted adult with them, if that is most comfortable. We know that having support makes a difference! Students may attend with us until June 30^th of the calendar year that they turn 21.

Can students under 18 years of age attend Prairie Hope High School?

A smaller number of our students are under 18 years old. These students come to us by referral from other Brandon School Division High Schools. We strongly encourage students and families to work closely with their ‘home school team’ to stay connected and work together to experience success in the regular high school setting. The decision to make a referral to Prairie Hope requires a team approach involving the student, family, home school, and the Prairie Hope team.

What does self-directed mean?

We encourage students to set dates for completion of a unit of work, but that may be different for each student. Students set goals and go through the steps to attain these goals within a reasonable time frame. We help students plan their program, but each student is the most responsible for their program.

Do students have to attend regularly?

Attendance is essential for students to complete courses and earn credits toward their High School Diploma. We understand that personal circumstances may hinder attendance at times, but we know that it is critical for students to stay connected with us and to attend regularly, in order to experience academic success and meet their graduation goals.

Can students graduate from Prairie Hope High School? 

Yes! Depending on age and criteria, students may graduate with either a Regular or Mature High School Diploma.

• A Regular High School Diploma is made up of a minimum of 30 credits, including all compulsory courses.
• A Mature High School Diploma is comprised of fewer credits and may be an option for some students. If this is a consideration, a Case Manager from Prairie Hope will discuss this path and the required criteria at intake.

What kind of courses are offered?

We offer a variety of courses at the Grade 9-12 levels, including all of the compulsory courses required to earn a Regular or Mature High School Diploma. We offer a variety of elective courses but, due to our small size, are unable to offer the wide variety of electives available in the other high schools in the Brandon School Division.

Is there student parking at Prairie Hope High School?

No. Unfortunately, we do not have our own parking lot for students. If you plan to drive to school, there is free parking on the street within two blocks of Prairie Hope. There is free two-hour parking on nearby streets, and two-hour metered parking on Princess Avenue, in front of the school.

Can students access transportation to Prairie Hope High School?

It may be possible to access transportation from home to school and back in the Prairie Hope High School van. Interested students may speak with their case managers about availability and criteria for the van.