A total of 15 spots are open for the dual credit program offered by Canadore College and area school boards. The program allows students to earn two credits, one that goes toward their high school and one that will be set aside for their Canadore College program, should they choose to attend.
The idea is to give students who may be having difficulties graduating a boost. They can earn a credit, and have the chance to experience a college course, which might inspire them to consider attending a college or university once they graduate.
There are two courses on offer, and students who enroll will complete both. Leadership and Program Planning teaches “theories and practical aspects of becoming an effective leader,” and Applied Geomatics helps students better navigate their world—literally—there will be maps, compasses, and GPS units. A trek through the forest is on the agenda.
The first class runs from July 4 to July 8th, and Geomatics is from July 11 to the 15th. Classes run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each course is free, no tuition, no materials costs, and even lunches are provided. The classes take place at Canadore, and if you’re in North Bay, transportation will be provided as well. For free. You’ll get picked up at your door and brought to class.
For a deal this sweet, those 15 spots will fill quickly, so registration is required. How does a student do that? Kevin Hotten, who is helping to put all of this together, suggests the student talk with their guidance councillor, and the councillor will know how to get the wheels turning. Hotten is with the Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic School Board and chairs the regional planning team that oversees these credit programs.
Hotten looks forward to the courses and mentioned that partnering with Canadore allows school boards more opportunities for educational programs, as the school has resources available that many schools do not.
“We really try to offer hands on and outdoor activities” in the summer classes, Hotten said, because it helps to keep the students engaged. “It’s a different educational approach than what they’d be doing in the classroom,” and so far, the tactic is working, as the summer program has been popular in the past.
So, for those interested in applying, do so quickly. You don’t need to bring your transcripts or craft an elaborate letter to apply. No resumes required. Talk with your school’s guidance councillor this week, and they can set you up for a two-week stint in summer school.
David Briggs is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of BayToday, a publication of Village Media. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
