North Island College - Ministry of Advanced Education - Government ...

Institutional Accountability Plan and Report 2011/12of English and Math will be offered for students continuing to the University of Victoria’s Bachelor ofEducation degree.To help reduce financial barriers to enrolment, NIC has created and is working to expandAboriginal specific information sources about financial aid and funding opportunities; these includeaccessible, up-to-date handouts, binders, websites, and information links. Improving and expandingassistance and services to students as they go through the funding process is an ongoing priority forthe College. NIC has also set aside emergency funds to aid with assessment and application fees.The College has continued to develop relationships with Aboriginal support staff in high schoolsthroughout the region. Participation in Aboriginal community events is also a priority for increasingNIC’s engagement with Aboriginal communities and building relationships of trust.NIC hosted an Aboriginal reference services library workshop in May 2011 with attendees fromVancouver Island Regional Library and the school district libraries. A library guide on First Nationstudies was also published in April 2011.Implement strategic enrolment and retention strategies.NIC has actively developed and implemented college-wide strategies to increase and retain studentenrolment. New initiatives include a prior learning assessment and recognition policy that isdesigned to open doors for mature learners in our communities. A tuition free policy for seniors tofurther support participation in credit programs has been implemented.A program for military students that recognizes previously obtained skills and knowledge has beendeveloped, with focus on the unique learning needs of the Canadian Forces, particularly themembers and families of 19 Wing Comox. Like the University of Manitoba, NIC will recognizemilitary education and experience giving PLA credit for rank to eligible students.New post-secondary pathways for students through dual admission opportunities are being pursuedon an ongoing basis as detailed in the “Programs and Partnerships” section of this document,including two new major post-secondary pathways for students with the University of Manitoba andthe University of Victoria.Work with our students and community partners to enhance campus life at each of ourcampuses.The College has opened a student lounge at the Comox Valley campus. This space, adjacent to thecafeteria, provides a gathering place and informal study space for students.The new Trades Training facility which opened on the Comox Valley Campus in January 2011 wasdesigned to provide space for events and informal student study and gathering space. Options forincorporating student green spaces, including recreational areas, within the site’s landscapingplanning are being explored.In partnership with our community organizations, local government and our post-secondaryeducation partners on Vancouver Island the College is working to develop and increase student39