Four Rainbow students accepted into prestigious Shad Canada program

An enriching educational experience awaits four students from Rainbow Schools who have been accepted into the prestigious Shad Canada program this summer.

Grade 10 student Grace Martin of Lockerby Composite School, Grade 10 student Kate Rantala of Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School, Grade 11 student Edward Xiong of Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School, and Grade 11 student Jocelyn Kuntsi of Manitoulin Secondary School will join secondary students from across Canada to explore the exciting world of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and Entrepreneurship.

“Shad provides students with an incredible networking and learning opportunity,” says Rainbow District School Board Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “I am so proud of our student participants and extend a sincere congratulations to all.”

Students in Grades 10 and 11 with an aptitude for risk-taking, curiosity, excellence and resilience are accepted into the Shad program which prepares them to take on social and economic challenges. Selection criteria includes academics, extracurriculars, creativity, innovation, and commitment to excellence.

Program participants hear from acclaimed professors, experts and entrepreneurs, explore university campuses, take part in hands-on and virtual workshops, develop lifelong friendships, and learn about future education and careers in STEAM. Above all, they get to collaborate with a project team on an innovative solution to a real-world problem.

“I am motivated by my scientific curiosity,” says Edward Xiong. “I appreciate the opportunity to push myself to my limits, and attend lectures from top Canadian scientists.”

“I really enjoy physics and math,” says Jocelyn Kuntsi. “I want to learn practical skills and make connections with other students passionate about science.”

Kate Rantala looks forward to building her professional portfolio. “Shad challenges students to make a difference and affect change,” she says. “I am excited to create innovative solutions to meaningful world issues in the final design challenge.”

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Media Contacts:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217