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2012 Spring Newsletter - Scwigrandriver.ca

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SCHOOL COLLEGE WORK INITIATIVE<br />

GRAND RIVER REGION 5 NEWSLETTER<br />

Grand River Region<br />

See SWAC’s Dual Credit<br />

Program in action...<br />

SWAC student Leroy Charles<br />

(pictured)<br />

Introduction to Trades (SWAC) was “Awesome!”<br />

“I’ve enjoyed the sort of ‘freedom’ this program<br />

offers. The freedom to work at your own pace<br />

is awesome, though it allows the possibility<br />

to procrastinate. Of course, that is only in the<br />

independent learning portion.<br />

As for the Trade-based college courses... they<br />

were great fun, as well as an awesome hands<br />

on learning experience. It would have been<br />

better if the college courses went on longer.<br />

Blake the college instructor was awesome yet<br />

diligent when it <strong>ca</strong>me to getting work done.<br />

Welding was an awesome experience. This<br />

program gave me my first taste of welding and<br />

it is something I would like to better myself in.<br />

The automotive course helped me touch up<br />

on my skills as well as further them. Greg is<br />

an awesome teacher and he helps inspire us<br />

instead of ‘riding’ us to get our work done and that<br />

is what I think all teachers should aim for.<br />

The SWAC program is awesome, but it’s best<br />

part might also be a flaw for some – the freedom.<br />

I procrastinated a little too much. It would have<br />

been better if I’d started working earlier and had<br />

more done before the due date. This has been a<br />

real learning experience for me.”<br />

~ SWAC student Levi M.<br />

Read the full story about the Trades program<br />

at Ohsweken on page 9...<br />

<strong>Spring</strong> <strong>Spring</strong> <strong>2012</strong> <strong>2012</strong>


SCWI: Grand River Region<br />

Contacts<br />

SCWI Steering Committee<br />

Rob Campbell<br />

Principal, St. John’s College<br />

BHNCDSB, 519-759-2318 Ext. 213<br />

r<strong>ca</strong>mpbell@bhncdsb.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Kathleen Evans<br />

Principal, Holy Trinity<br />

BHNCDSB, 519-429-3600 Ext. 305<br />

kevans@bhncdsb.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Mary Gallo<br />

SCWI Dual Credit Program Coordinator<br />

519-756-5466<br />

mgallo@scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong> NEW<br />

Paul Kostelny<br />

Principal Leader<br />

GEDSB<br />

519-754-1606<br />

paul.kostelny@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Leanne Majerovich<br />

Principal - Hagersville Secondary<br />

905-768-3318<br />

leanne.majerovichy@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Deb McEwan<br />

Fanshawe-Simcoe, 519-426-8260 Ext. 225<br />

dmcewan@fanshawec.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Dr. Maria Cantalini-Williams<br />

Director-Concurrent Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

Nipissing-Brant, 519-752-1524 Ext. 7501<br />

mariac@nipissingu.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Mary Gallo<br />

SCWI Dual Credit Program Coordinator<br />

519-756-5466<br />

mgallo@scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong> NEW<br />

Cathy Horgan (SCWI Chair)<br />

Director of Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

BHNCDSB, 519-756-6505 Ext. 223<br />

chorgan@bhncdsb.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Jill Halyk<br />

Director, Workforce Planning Board<br />

of Grand Erie, 519-756-1116<br />

jhalyk@workforceplanningboard.org<br />

Marilyn Kaus<br />

Director: Employment Services<br />

St. Leonard’s-YAC, 519-756-7665<br />

mkaus@st-leonards.com<br />

Paul Kostelny<br />

Principal Leader<br />

GEDSB, 519-754-1606<br />

paul.kostelny@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Deb McEwan<br />

Fanshawe-Simcoe,<br />

519-426-8260 Ext. 225<br />

dmcewan@fanshawec.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Andy Nesbitt<br />

Superintendent<br />

GEDSB, 519-756-6306<br />

andy.nesbitt@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Joanne Procter<br />

Associate Dean<br />

Mohawk-Brant, 519-758-6012<br />

joanne.procter@mohawkcollege.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Chris N. Roehrig<br />

Superintendent<br />

BHNCDSB, 519-756-6505 Ext. 232<br />

croehrig@bhncdsb.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Jan Tyrrell<br />

Coordinator-SCWI , SWAC<br />

519-756-5000<br />

jtyrrell@scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

NEW<br />

Joanne Procter<br />

Associate Dean<br />

Mohawk-Brant, 519-758-6012<br />

joanne.procter@mohawkcollege.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Brian Quistberg<br />

Principal, WDHS<br />

GEDSB, 519-443-8657<br />

brian.quistberg@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Jan Tyrrell<br />

SCWI Coordinator<br />

519-756-5000<br />

jtyrrell@scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

NEW<br />

Lindsay Williams<br />

Principal, GELA<br />

519-753-6079<br />

lindsay.williams@granderie.<strong>ca</strong><br />

The Grand River Region Planning Team is a partnership of:<br />

Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board<br />

Cathy Horgan, Director of Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

Fanshawe College (Simcoe)<br />

Donna Gates, Campus Chair<br />

Grand Erie District School Board<br />

John Forbeck, Director of Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

Mohawk College (Brantford)<br />

Paul Armstrong, Dean<br />

Nipissing University (Brantford)<br />

Dr. Maria Cantalini-Williams,<br />

Director of Concurrent Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

2


Coordinator’s Message...<br />

Our year started on a positive<br />

note. In November the School<br />

College Work Initiative team<br />

attended a provincial meeting in<br />

Toronto to receive an update<br />

on the SCWI programs across<br />

the province. We learned there<br />

were 311 activities and forums in<br />

2010-11 involving over 84,000<br />

participants the majority of whom were students and<br />

parents. Student participation in Dual credit programs<br />

increased by 63% over 2009-10 and in 2011 the<br />

number of Dual Credit students reached 15,000 in 455<br />

programs, 23 of which are School Within A College<br />

(SWAC) programs.<br />

Under the direction of the SCWI, the Grand River<br />

Region Planning team provides opportunities for<br />

district school boards and colleges to bring together<br />

faculty, teachers and administrators to work together<br />

to increase opportunities for Student Success. The<br />

two lo<strong>ca</strong>l school boards and the two community<br />

college <strong>ca</strong>mpuses, which lie in this area, are the core<br />

partners of the team with supports from several other<br />

agencies and institutions including the Workforce<br />

Planning Board of Grand Erie.<br />

The Grand River Region Planning Team has 11<br />

forums and activities this year including some new<br />

ones. In late November the Brant Haldimand Norfolk<br />

Catholic and Grand Erie District school boards<br />

worked together to put on a forum entitled “Value All<br />

Destinations” which you will read about in this issue.<br />

Our focus activity this year “Picture Yourself @ College”<br />

is on Aboriginal Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion Awareness/ Community<br />

Engagement and we have been working closely with<br />

the Roadmap Committee to produce an edu<strong>ca</strong>tional<br />

information package entitled ”Lighting Your Journey<br />

to Success” for distribution later in the year.<br />

There are currently five SWAC programs operating in<br />

partnership with Mohawk, Brantford and Fanshawe,<br />

Simcoe <strong>ca</strong>mpuses. Our newest addition is a program<br />

lo<strong>ca</strong>ted on the Six Nations Reserve and the students<br />

take their Introduction to Trades courses through<br />

Mohawk College at the Ogwehoweh Skills and Trades<br />

Training Centre.(OSTTC)<br />

Our newest addition to<br />

the team is Mary Gallo,<br />

previously the Principal<br />

Leader of Program for<br />

the Brant Haldimand<br />

Norfolk Catholic District<br />

School Board. Mary<br />

has been a member<br />

of the Steering Committee<br />

since its inception<br />

in 2005 – she will<br />

now take on the role of<br />

Dual Credit Coordinator and I will remain as the School<br />

College Work Initiative Coordinator. We are employed<br />

by the Grand River planning team to assist members<br />

of the partner organizations in implementing all<br />

of the SCWI funded activities under the leadership of<br />

Cathy Horgan, chair of the SCWI Grand River Region<br />

Steering Committee.<br />

Coming together is a beginning<br />

Keeping together is progress<br />

Working together is success<br />

-Henry Ford<br />

~ Jan Tyrrell, SCWI Coordinator<br />

3


SCWI: Grand River Region<br />

View All Destinations<br />

On November 22, 2011 guidance counselors, guidance secretaries, Student Success teachers and<br />

Coop teachers from the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board and the Grand Erie<br />

District School Board gathered at Mohawk College for the “Value All Destinations” forum.<br />

In the morning session Phil Hedges was the<br />

keynote speaker providing updates from the<br />

Ministry of Edu<strong>ca</strong>tion regarding Dual Credit<br />

programs across the province and the new<br />

course codes, Specialist High Skills Major<br />

programs and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship<br />

information. The participants formed into<br />

discussion groups and held Question and<br />

Answer sessions on the topics including OnSIS<br />

recording and reporting and the 12+12 Initiative.<br />

The afternoon session included Labour Market<br />

Information, an overview of pathways resources<br />

and occupational information for classroom and<br />

school use. The resources profiled included<br />

several different <strong>ca</strong>reers, all with varying<br />

edu<strong>ca</strong>tion requirements (workplace, college,<br />

apprenticeship, and university). This workshop<br />

was facilitated by Jaymie Nelson, Project<br />

Coordinator and Jill Halyk, Director of the<br />

Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie.<br />

The forum “Value All Destinations” was well<br />

attended by 50 edu<strong>ca</strong>tors and gave some<br />

insight into the increasing opportunities for<br />

Student Success. The feedback from the day<br />

was positive and the edu<strong>ca</strong>tors appreciated the<br />

resources provided by the Workforce<br />

Planning Board which were distributed to the 20<br />

secondary schools across the region.<br />

Jaymie Nelson, Workforce Planning Board<br />

of Grand Erie<br />

4


Grades 7 & 8 Boys learn about –<br />

‘Careers in Human Services’<br />

About 130 Grade 7 and 8 boys from both<br />

lo<strong>ca</strong>l school boards had a glimpse of <strong>ca</strong>reer<br />

opportunities at Males in Human Services held<br />

Feb. 29, <strong>2012</strong>.<br />

The one-day <strong>ca</strong>reer fair was designed to open<br />

the eyes of boys to what are considered to be<br />

non-traditional <strong>ca</strong>reers for men, particularly in<br />

human services and helping professions.<br />

“We want students to think about <strong>ca</strong>reers that<br />

they may not know much about,” said organizer<br />

Jaymie Nelson, Passport to Prosperity coordinator<br />

with the Workforce Planning Board.<br />

“Males in Human Services is meant to give<br />

students an opportunity to explore <strong>ca</strong>reers that<br />

are not traditionally filled by males.”<br />

Those <strong>ca</strong>reers including behaviour consultant,<br />

child and youth worker, brain injury <strong>ca</strong>se worker,<br />

employment counsellor, social worker and<br />

paramedic. Students also participated in<br />

team-building activities, wheelchair basketball<br />

and learned what it’s like to have dementia.<br />

“The event is deliberately aimed at students<br />

in senior elementary school, before they start<br />

choosing courses in high school for future<br />

<strong>ca</strong>reers,” Nelson said.<br />

The event was done in partnership with<br />

School College Work Initiative, with help from<br />

the Grand Erie District School Board, Brant<br />

Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School<br />

Board and Mohawk College Brantford.<br />

Participation House and the Alzheimer<br />

Society of Brant provided activities.<br />

5


SCWI: Grand River Region<br />

Encourage and support<br />

their vision...<br />

Encourage and support<br />

Trades and Technology...<br />

Encourage and support<br />

Arts and Culture...<br />

Encourage and support<br />

Sports and Traditions...<br />

It takes your<br />

support<br />

for their<br />

success.<br />

scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

6


SCWI Dual Credit Project - School Within a College<br />

School Within a College (SWAC) is an incredible opportunity for senior students who wish<br />

to explore a college courses and complete their high school diploma in an alternative way.<br />

The grand River Region SWAC is a partnership among Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic<br />

District School Board, Grand Erie District School Board, Fanshawe College, Simcoe and Mohawk<br />

College, Brantford. Programs are offered as full days in the college setting. Students engage in a<br />

dual credit program based on their pathway choice. They attend a congregated class and take the<br />

entire program as a group with one secondary teacher as their primary contact. Secondary staffing<br />

is provided by both school boards.<br />

There are two components to SWAC programs. Dual Credits are taught by college instructors.<br />

Students receive up to 4 college credits in each program and these go toward the high school<br />

diploma. Additional secondary credits are taught by the secondary school teacher and include<br />

experiences which enhance the program chosen by the students. This is accomplished by a combination of<br />

direct teaching (usually English and/or Math), credit recovery and Independent Learning modules. This<br />

combination of approaches allows students to focus on the compulsory English and Math<br />

needed to accomplish their OSSD and qualify for the next step programs they want to<br />

enter, as well as to complete other courses they may need to graduate.<br />

Currently the secondary teaching staff includes Greg Davis, Gregory Henhawk, Stephanie<br />

Gemmill, Marianne Helgers and Ed House. They are extraordinary teachers who work closely with<br />

a variety of college instructors to make the program a Success.<br />

Program Options<br />

SWAC programs are evolving based on identified need and the availability of the college to offer<br />

the program focus. Currently we run the following programs each semester:<br />

• Introduction to Trades ( Mohawk, Brantford)<br />

• Introduction to Trades (Mohawk, Ohsweken)<br />

• Business & Graphic Design (Mohawk, Brantford)<br />

• Human Services (Mohawk, Brantford)<br />

• Human Relations (Fanshawe, Simcoe)<br />

Target Group<br />

The target group for SWAC includes students who are:<br />

• 17-20 years of age who have not completed the OSSD<br />

• Have an interest in exploring college/preapprenticeship<br />

pathways<br />

• May be considering or have already dropped out of school<br />

• Are motivated to improve work skills and build self<br />

confidence<br />

• Are <strong>ca</strong>pable of working at the College or Apprenticeship level<br />

7


school within a college<br />

School Within A College<br />

(SWAC) Program: Ohsweken<br />

September 2011 marked the inaugural semester<br />

for a new alternative learning program on Six<br />

Nations of the Grand River. It is based out of<br />

the G.R.E.A.T. (Grand River Employment and<br />

Training) Building in Ohsweken and is partnered<br />

with the Ogwehoweh Skills and Trades Training<br />

Centre (OSTTC), Mohawk College-Brantford;<br />

and is attached to Hagersville Secondary School<br />

(Grand Erie District School Board).<br />

Students earn dual credits (College level credits<br />

that also count as Secondary School credits)<br />

and regular Secondary School credits through<br />

independent learning courses (ILC’s) in order<br />

to complete their Ontario Secondary School<br />

Diploma (OSSD).<br />

The initial college offerings have focused upon<br />

general training in Trade skills. All students take<br />

4 courses in the following Trades: Automotive<br />

Repair; Welding; Construction; Engineering<br />

Graphics and Blueprint Reading. In the future, it is<br />

hoped there <strong>ca</strong>n be additional College offerings<br />

similar to Ohsweken’s sister programs in Simcoe<br />

and Brantford. These SWAC lo<strong>ca</strong>tions offer<br />

courses in Human Relations, Human Services,<br />

as well as, Business and Graphic Design.<br />

Having such a program in Ohsweken is a success<br />

in itself; however, the benefits of the program<br />

have already paid dividends for a number of<br />

Six Nations, New Credit and surrounding area<br />

students.<br />

Shawn Sault from New Credit of the Mississauga’s<br />

earned 7 credits (3 dual college credits and 4<br />

Independent learning credits) (ILC’s) to complete<br />

the required credits for his Ontario Secondary<br />

School Diploma (OSSD).<br />

8


school within a college<br />

Shawn was able to complete all his credits in one<br />

semester, an accomplishment that seemed more<br />

than a year away when he entered his 5th year of<br />

secondary edu<strong>ca</strong>tion this past September.<br />

“Shawn be<strong>ca</strong>me very motivated to complete his<br />

courses when he realized he could work at his own<br />

accelerated pace on ILC’s, and he also enjoyed<br />

the practi<strong>ca</strong>lity of the Trade courses versus regular<br />

a<strong>ca</strong>demic (classroom based) courses.”(Henhawk)<br />

Leroy Charles (pictured) from Six Nations of the<br />

Grand River shared a similar story to Shawn back<br />

in September. Entering his 5th year of Secondary<br />

School he needed additional credits to complete his<br />

OSSD. He not only achieved his required credits but<br />

he surpassed the minimum number of 30 credits for<br />

an OSSD. Leroy completed 7 credits (4 dual credits<br />

and 3 ILC’s) for a total of 34 Secondary credits and<br />

the maximum number of 4 College credits. He is<br />

now in the process of completing additional Welding<br />

training with the prospect of two potential jobs, as<br />

soon as he completes his training and testing at the<br />

end of March.<br />

“Leroy thrived in the mature learning environment<br />

at SWAC. In regular high school he struggled with<br />

attendance and assignment completion. At SWAC,<br />

he lived within walking distance of the school and<br />

he could complete assignments at his own pace.<br />

Not only did his attendance improve, his assignment<br />

completion rate increased and the quality of his<br />

work improved exponentially over the semester”.<br />

(Henhawk)<br />

in July. Syd entered SWAC Ohsweken with his OSSD<br />

already completed. However, he needed course<br />

upgrading and additional Trade training, in order to<br />

qualify for an apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship<br />

program. His successful appli<strong>ca</strong>tion to the Brantford<br />

Trades A<strong>ca</strong>demy was no doubt enhanced by the<br />

courses he completed at SWAC – Ohsweken.<br />

“Syd is a very conscientious person. I have no doubt<br />

he will have great success in the Trades A<strong>ca</strong>demy<br />

with a class size of only 15 students. A regular<br />

‘classroom’ setting is not the best for Syd; he thrives<br />

with more individual assistance in a smaller class<br />

size environment and the practi<strong>ca</strong>l/ ‘hands-on’ work<br />

in the shops is an area that he has always excelled<br />

at.” (Henhawk).<br />

These initial successes are a solid start for the SWAC<br />

program in Ohsweken but it is the potential for the<br />

growth of the program that really bodes well for<br />

future students.<br />

“A long journey always starts with just one step”<br />

(Hopi saying)<br />

~ By Greg Henhawk - Teacher<br />

“At SWAC, students must take greater responsibility<br />

for their edu<strong>ca</strong>tion by increasing the discipline it<br />

takes to stay in the program. Students must be 18<br />

years to enter the program. This means they <strong>ca</strong>n<br />

write their own notes but it also means they <strong>ca</strong>n be<br />

completely dropped from the program if they have<br />

poor attendance or behaviour”. (Henhawk)<br />

Finally, Syd Carson, from Caledonia has been<br />

accepted into a pre-apprenticeship program in<br />

Brantford for Welding and Steam fitting, which starts<br />

9


school within a college<br />

What SWAC students say....<br />

Patrick M - Dual Credit<br />

Testimonials<br />

“Through the School Within a College program (SWAC)<br />

at Mohawk College I have finally found all the elements<br />

necessary to make me not merely successful, but have allowed<br />

me to flourish within a classroom environment which<br />

has never happened before.<br />

I initially chose to attend the dual credit program simply<br />

due to the fact that there were no alternative options for<br />

me within this city. When I arrived I was content achieving<br />

50%and simply skating through the courses so I could get<br />

my high school diploma and finally get into the workforce.<br />

I had no intentions of ever furthering my edu<strong>ca</strong>tion past a<br />

high school level.<br />

Upon my arrival into the program; however, I was informed<br />

that my teacher would accept no less than 70% from me<br />

and pushed me to do better. Thanks to the encouragement<br />

of my teacher and professors I decided to push myself<br />

to achieve higher marks and become a better student.<br />

Throughout both terms I maintained an above 90% average<br />

and a perfect attendance record. Being in a positive<br />

edu<strong>ca</strong>tional environment that I could thrive in, along with<br />

interacting with my peers, was a new thing for me and participating<br />

in college courses that were relevant to my fields<br />

of interest forced me to revaluate my position that upon<br />

graduation, I would not further my edu<strong>ca</strong>tion.<br />

Now, upon graduating from SWAC as an Ontario Scholar I will be flying out to Vancouver, British Columbia to have my<br />

induction meeting with The Vancouver Institute of Media Arts where I will be taking their intensive University “Business of<br />

Photography” program which happens to be regarded as one of the best photography programs in the country.”<br />

Brian W - Trades<br />

“I found the SWAC Program to be a relieving experience mostly due to the change from a busy high school environment<br />

to a simple room were work <strong>ca</strong>n be done quietly and efficiently. I believe this environment is useful be<strong>ca</strong>use it gives<br />

students who have no place to go for their credits. SWAC helps by providing a path for students to walk on. It gets them<br />

back on their feet in order to <strong>ca</strong>tch up with everyone else. I think without the SWAC program to back up students that<br />

weren’t able to keep up in school, there would be a lot more unemployed people due to the lack of knowledge and skill<br />

that they would now not possess without the help of SWAC.”<br />

10


school within a college<br />

Scott M - Human Relations<br />

“Taking part in the SWAC program was a life changing experience that I will truly never forget. Some wonderful people<br />

have crossed my path in these last five months. I’ve had a blast, and even learned a bit about myself too.<br />

I owe it all to Lisa Dove and Stephanie Gemmill. They give their students freedom, treated them with respect, and only<br />

want what’s best for the class. They’re most definitely two of the kindest people I’ve ever encountered.<br />

The SWAC program was perfect for a kid like me. You get to complete four college credits, a grade 12 English credit, and<br />

other courses that you need to graduate. The college program ran in the morning and we would learn about how to cope<br />

in the workplace, management skills, and much more, taught by Lisa Dove. In the afternoon we had our grade 12 English<br />

class with Stephanie Gemmill, The last hour of the day, you work independently on courses you need to finish in order to<br />

earn your diploma. I really like the independent learning courses (ILC) booklets be<strong>ca</strong>use you’re able to work at your own<br />

pace and obtain a credit.<br />

If the student is committed to attendance, then success will be achieved. I was pretty bad with my attendance, but<br />

Stephanie and Lisa understood and encouraged me to be there the next day.<br />

I really enjoyed the SWAC program. I honestly didn’t think I would like it at all, but I earned four college credits, met some<br />

good friends, and had lots of fun. It’s great for kids like me, who just don’t fit in with the regular high school scene. If<br />

you told me five months ago that I would graduate and be ready to start a new life, I wouldn’t have believed it one bit...<br />

but here I am.”<br />

Emily T. - Human Relations<br />

“I strongly believe that the SWAC program is an extremely good program for teenagers who need to get those last few<br />

credits to graduate or just wanted to bring some marks up and keep in the “school routine” . This program gives kids a<br />

chance to experience how college is without being on a large college <strong>ca</strong>mpus.<br />

The program helps to develop the way you learn, and helps you to figure out how you learn best. I liked the program<br />

be<strong>ca</strong>use of the small class that you wouldn’t get in a normal high school. This means that the teacher is more one-on-one<br />

with everyone and I feel like that helps kids learn a lot better. SWAC is an easier way to finish school for those who haven’t<br />

yet, and I feel that this option should be more open to any and every student. I found out about the program through my<br />

friends, otherwise I wouldn’t be here. The program gives kids who have maybe had a rough life or didn’t exactly make the<br />

right choices, the opportunity to graduate and I think that’s amazing.<br />

Everyone I’ve met or been taught by during my short time in the SWAC program has helped to shape my life in an amazing<br />

way and I am thankful and happy that I took this program. It gave me a lot of things to think about. SWAC has helped<br />

me to discover what I am <strong>ca</strong>pable of and what I really want to do with my life. Thank you!”<br />

11


school within a college<br />

Michael X - Trades<br />

“I really enjoy being in the “School Within a<br />

College” program. It was interesting and I learned<br />

so much. I met a lot of good people in my class<br />

in SWAC, and I am going to miss them. My<br />

experience in SWAC included a challenging<br />

construction class. It was fun and I learned a lot from<br />

Terry. Welding class was the hardest for me... to weld<br />

arc and mag, but I made it through. I love using the<br />

torch in welding class, to cut metal, and now I fully<br />

understand how to use the tools. I liked our teacher<br />

Greg. He is an interesting and cool person. I learn a<br />

lot from the Trades class. The things I experienced I<br />

will use in the future, and for my <strong>ca</strong>reer.”<br />

Joe S - Trades<br />

“I thought that SWAC was a very good way to<br />

get credits that I needed and wanted to get.<br />

It was also very easy to do it compared to<br />

doing it at high school. I feel it was a much<br />

better environment, easier to focus, and I got along<br />

with all my class mates which never usually happened<br />

in high school. I think any student who is able<br />

to go to SWAC should definitely go be<strong>ca</strong>use it is a very<br />

interesting experience. I hope SWAC continues to stay<br />

as a program for a long time so other students <strong>ca</strong>n get<br />

the help they need, and have fun doing it, rather then<br />

feeling they have to do it.”<br />

12


Is regular h<br />

school not for you<br />

school within a college<br />

S.W.A.C<br />

SCHOOL WITHIN<br />

A COLLEGE<br />

by: Allysha Bertrand<br />

“I originally <strong>ca</strong>me to SWAC in order to graduate earlier<br />

be<strong>ca</strong>use I was planning on moving out and wanted the<br />

opportunity to work full time for the extra semester. I heard about<br />

SWAC from a friend who is a previous student at SWAC and about her<br />

success. I just recently switched high schools be<strong>ca</strong>use I didn’t like the<br />

environment. That it didn’t solve the issue.<br />

I dropped out be<strong>ca</strong>use I felt I hated high school. I went to my<br />

guidance counsellor and talked to her about how I felt I didn’t<br />

belong with the kids at high school. I wanted to have more freedom and<br />

independence when it <strong>ca</strong>me to school. When I heard more<br />

about the program and how there was a human services department,<br />

I jumped to the opportunity and set up my interview. After a<br />

semester at SWAC I earned seven credits and graduated a semester early.<br />

I learned a lot and I feel that I’ve grown over the year. I was happy to be<br />

able to work at my own speed. Joining SWAC was the best decision for me.”<br />

What does SWAC have to<br />

offer<br />

SWAC has three different subjects to<br />

match students individual needs. If you are<br />

interested in a <strong>ca</strong>reer directed towards<br />

working with people, the Human<br />

Services sector is for you. If you are<br />

more interested in the a <strong>ca</strong>reer that is<br />

ofÞce-based and technologi<strong>ca</strong>l, the<br />

Business sector is for you. The Trades<br />

sector is more for people who want hands<br />

on work to earn hard skills.<br />

WhatÕs different about<br />

SWAC<br />

SWAC teaches students to be independent<br />

be<strong>ca</strong>use you work on your own, you don’t<br />

get told what to do. Your success at SWAC<br />

determines on the effort you put in. You<br />

work at your own pace; whether its fast or<br />

slow. You are able to earn dual-credits<br />

which are equivalent to college credits.<br />

GENERATION Y + SWAC =<br />

SUCCESS<br />

SWAC is good for Generation Y be<strong>ca</strong>use<br />

our generation is known to be techsavvy<br />

and impatient due to the fast<br />

paced lives we live. In our generation we<br />

<strong>ca</strong>n retain information within the matter<br />

of seconds and communi<strong>ca</strong>te with any<br />

one around the world; these norms<br />

were only imagination as the baby<br />

boomers grew up. SWAC allows us to<br />

have technology at our Þngertips (MAC<br />

laptops) and allows us to work at our<br />

own pace.<br />

It is also good for Generation Y be<strong>ca</strong>use<br />

it is a new way of teaching, rather than<br />

the old-fashioned ways of high school. It<br />

allows students to do many different<br />

options rather than the cookie-cutter<br />

teaching styles in the school<br />

BENEFITS OF SWAC<br />

¥ Free Þrst aid certiÞ<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

¥ Free bus pass<br />

¥ Free parking pass<br />

¥ Free School trips<br />

¥ Free school/project supplies<br />

SWAC SUCCESS<br />

“Without SWAC it would<br />

be impossible for me to<br />

graduate on time...”<br />

- SWAC student of 2011<br />

“I was never able to<br />

get along with<br />

teachers, until I<br />

<strong>ca</strong>me to SWAC.”<br />

“ I was able to earn 9 credits,<br />

in one semester; something<br />

that would be impossible at a<br />

regular high school.”<br />

-SWAC student 2011<br />

-SWAC student of<br />

2011<br />

“I <strong>ca</strong>me to SWAC<br />

be<strong>ca</strong>use i didn’t feel I<br />

belonged in the<br />

regular high school...it<br />

is a much more<br />

mature environment.<br />

-SWAC student of<br />

2011<br />

13


school within a college<br />

SWAC Fall Semester - Fanshawe College...<br />

This semester we had a great group of students who excelled at classroom discussion. Students enrolled in<br />

four college courses consisting of Human Relations, Communi<strong>ca</strong>tions, Dealing with Difficult People and<br />

Personal Success. On a daily basis, students participated in group work, classroom presentations, and<br />

blogging. One of the most challenging college assignments that students had to complete was an independent<br />

presentation on the topic of their choice where they had to incorporate a power point show into their speeches.<br />

The majority of students also enjoyed working with a new computer program <strong>ca</strong>lled Glogster. Using this<br />

program, students had to create a visual representation of their speeches. This program provided visual<br />

learners with a chance to really demonstrate what they learned through research their topics.<br />

During the grade 12 English program, students read a variety of short stories and other short texts. Students<br />

also read “The Freedom Writers” which is a collection of journals written by high school students struggling<br />

with issues ranging from racism, drug abuse, physi<strong>ca</strong>l abuse and gang warfare. Students reacted well to the<br />

collection of journals as many of them could identify with at least one of the topics in the book. Students<br />

further explored some of the topics in the book by writing various journals, answering questions and writing<br />

an essay at the end of the unit.<br />

Overall, it was a successful semester. Over half of the students in the program are continuing their edu<strong>ca</strong>tion<br />

at a college program in the fall. Other students are taking some time to figure out what direction they want to<br />

pursue. Ultimately, most of the students have learned that a little hard work and determination goes a long<br />

way, and if they set their minds to it, they <strong>ca</strong>n accomplish anything they want.<br />

~by Stephanie Dunham<br />

14


school within a college<br />

SWAC Program Options <strong>2012</strong>-13<br />

HOW DO MY<br />

OPTIONS WORK<br />

SWAC Programs are<br />

delivered full-time at<br />

Fanshawe, Simcoe,<br />

Mohawk, Ohsweken and<br />

Mohawk, Brantford.<br />

Each College Credit<br />

component successfully<br />

completed also<br />

generates one<br />

secondary credit<br />

towards your OSSD.<br />

You have the<br />

opportunity to earn<br />

more secondary credits<br />

if you need them.<br />

1/2 of your time is<br />

dedi<strong>ca</strong>ted to the<br />

college component;<br />

the other half is your<br />

secondary component.<br />

Fanshawe College, Simcoe<br />

Human Relations, College Component<br />

▪ Human Relations<br />

▪ Personal Success<br />

▪ Communi<strong>ca</strong>tions<br />

▪ Dealing with Difficult People<br />

Mohawk College.. Ohsweken<br />

Introduction to Trades and Technology,<br />

College Component<br />

▪ Introduction to Construction<br />

▪ Introduction to Welding<br />

▪ Blueprint Reading / Engineering Graphics<br />

▪ Automotive<br />

Mohawk College, Brantford<br />

Introduction to Trades and Technology<br />

College Component<br />

▪ Introduction to Construction<br />

▪ Introduction to Welding<br />

▪ Blueprint Reading / Engineering Graphics<br />

▪ Introduction to Green Industry<br />

Human Services, College Component<br />

▪ Interpersonal and Group Dynamics<br />

▪ Crime and the Media<br />

▪ Sociology<br />

▪ Popular Culture and Social Influence<br />

+<br />

Secondary Component<br />

Teacher taught credit (English)<br />

and teacher supported credit<br />

recovery or modified<br />

independent learning courses.<br />

+<br />

Secondary Component<br />

Teacher taught credit (English)<br />

and teacher supported credit<br />

recovery or modified<br />

independent learning courses.<br />

+ Secondary Component<br />

Teacher taught credit (English)<br />

and teacher supported credit<br />

recovery or modified<br />

independent learning courses.<br />

+ Secondary Component<br />

Teacher taught credit (English)<br />

and teacher supported credit<br />

recovery or modified<br />

independent learning courses.<br />

Business and Graphic Design<br />

College Component<br />

▪ Introduction to Design Appli<strong>ca</strong>tions<br />

▪ Graphics Marketing<br />

▪ Computer Appli<strong>ca</strong>tions<br />

▪ Human Relations<br />

+<br />

Secondary Component<br />

Teacher taught credit (English) and<br />

teacher supported credit<br />

recovery or modified<br />

independent learning courses.<br />

For more information contact a guidance counsellor at your lo<strong>ca</strong>l high school.<br />

Visit www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong> for more information.<br />

15


Media Blitz! - See SWAC’s newspaper<br />

ads, posters, post<strong>ca</strong>rds, flyers, billboards,<br />

bus sign, etc.<br />

I got my high school diploma<br />

with help from SWAC.<br />

I started to earn College credits<br />

with help from SWAC.<br />

DO YOU KNOW SWAC <br />

www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Contact your high school guidance department to find out more<br />

about School Within a College (SWAC) and to register.<br />

Want to graduate high school and start college Need a little help<br />

“I got my high school diploma<br />

with help from SWAC.”<br />

“I started to earn College<br />

credits with help from SWAC.”<br />

DO YOU KNOW SWAC <br />

Contact a BHNCDSB or GEDSB<br />

high school guidance department<br />

to find out more about<br />

School Within a College (SWAC)<br />

DO YOU KNOW SWAC <br />

and to register.<br />

Earn college and high school credits at the same time.<br />

“I just want to start college, but I haven’t finished all of my high school credits. Can SWAC help me”<br />

Express<br />

www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Fanshawe College, Simcoe<br />

Mohawk College, Ohsweken<br />

Mohawk College, Brantford<br />

How Does SWAC Work<br />

SWAC Programs are delivered full-time at<br />

Fanshawe, Simcoe, Mohawk, Ohsweken and<br />

Mohawk, Brantford.<br />

Each College Credit component<br />

successfully completed also generates one<br />

secondary credit towards your OSSD.<br />

You have the opportunity to earn more<br />

secondary credits if you need them.<br />

1/2 of your time is dedi<strong>ca</strong>ted to the<br />

college component; the other half is your<br />

secondary component.<br />

Programs include: Human Relations, Human<br />

Services, Trades and Technology, Business<br />

and Graphic Design.<br />

Who <strong>ca</strong>n apply<br />

To apply to a SWAC program, you must be registered at a secondary<br />

school of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board or<br />

the Grand Erie District School Board. Out of school, but still need credits<br />

Go to or <strong>ca</strong>ll your home high school to register.<br />

3 Easy Steps<br />

1 Talk to a guidance counsellor to see if SWAC is right for you.<br />

2 Complete an appli<strong>ca</strong>tion form with help from your guidance counsellor.<br />

3 Attend an intake interview with a college professor and teacher to<br />

review your plans.<br />

Want to graduate high school and start college<br />

Need a little help<br />

“I got my high school diploma www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

with help from SWAC.”<br />

“I started to earn College<br />

credits with help from SWAC.”<br />

DO YOU KNOW SWAC <br />

Contact a BHNCDSB or GEDSB<br />

high school guidance department<br />

to find out more about<br />

School Within a College (SWAC)<br />

and to register.<br />

DO YOU KNOW SWAC <br />

Earn college and high school credits at the same time.<br />

“I just want to start college, but I haven’t finished all of my high school credits. Can SWAC help me”<br />

Fanshawe College, Simcoe Mohawk College, Ohsweken Mohawk College, Brantford<br />

How Does SWAC Work<br />

Who <strong>ca</strong>n apply<br />

SWAC Programs are delivered full-time at To apply to a SWAC program, you must be registered at a secondary<br />

Fanshawe, Simcoe, Mohawk, Ohsweken and school of the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board or<br />

Mohawk, Brantford.<br />

the Grand Erie District School Board. Out of school, but still need credits<br />

Go to or <strong>ca</strong>ll your home high school to register.<br />

Each College Credit component<br />

successfully completed also generates one<br />

3 Easy Steps<br />

secondary credit towards your OSSD.<br />

1 Talk to a guidance counsellor to see if SWAC is right for you.<br />

You have the opportunity to earn more<br />

2 Complete an appli<strong>ca</strong>tion form with help from your guidance counsellor.<br />

secondary credits if you need them.<br />

3 Attend an intake interview with a college professor and teacher to<br />

1/2 of your time is dedi<strong>ca</strong>ted to the<br />

review your plans.<br />

college component; the other half is your<br />

secondary component.<br />

Programs include: Human Relations, Human<br />

Services, Trades and Technology, Business<br />

and Graphic Design.<br />

www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Contact your high school guidance department to find out more about<br />

School Within a College (SWAC) and to register.<br />

www.scwigrandriver.<strong>ca</strong><br />

Contact your high school guidance department to find out more about<br />

School Within a College (SWAC) and to register.<br />

Stay tuned for ...<br />

Destination College - May 22 - 25th, <strong>2012</strong><br />

SWAC Media Blitz - Week of May 28th, <strong>2012</strong><br />

Way to Work (Earn to Learn) - May, <strong>2012</strong><br />

Your Future in Skilled Trades - May, <strong>2012</strong><br />

Getting the Word Out - June, <strong>2012</strong><br />

Picture Yourself @ College - Aboriginal Roadmap Launch - June 12, <strong>2012</strong><br />

Career Pathways Symposium - September, <strong>2012</strong>

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