News Release
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West Ferris STEAM Program Named an
Apple Distinguished Program
The Near North District School Board is excited to announce that the STEAM Program at West Ferris Intermediate and Secondary School has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished Program for 2015–2017. The STEAM program, available to students in grades 7-12, integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics with a focus on project-based learning.
The program has taken on several different names since its inception as the ST-21 program in 1992. In 2005, ST-21 was transformed into the ST Wireless Program with the inclusion of student laptops as the main learning tool. In 2009, further enhancements included the movement towards Apple MacBook Pros and iPod Touches.
Brent Yacoback, program lead for STEAM, was recently recognized as one of a handful of educators from across Canada to become an Apple Distinguished Educator for his commitment to innovative education.
“The selection of STEAM as an Apple Distinguished Program highlights our success as an innovative and compelling learning environment that engages students and provides tangible evidence of academic accomplishment,” said Yacoback.
The Apple Distinguished Program designation is reserved for programs that meet criteria for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence, and demonstrate Apple’s vision of exemplary learning environments. STEAM students are co-learners with their peers and teachers using cutting edge computer technologies. Learning in the STEAM environment encourages students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers and leaders.
