Lasalle receives Skills Canada Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Program Grant

Lasalle Secondary School has received a $10,000 Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Program grant from Skills/Compétences Canada. The funds will be used to purchase tools and construction supplies.

“The entire selection committee was very impressed with the merit of your proposed project,” said Emily Waldron of Skills Canada – Ontario.  “We sincerely hope that this grant will enable you to not only provide lasting improvements to your school and community, but also help you to facilitate the growth of your students’ competencies.”

Rainbow District School Board Chair Tyler Campbell commended Skills Canada for supporting student success in the trades through the Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Program. “This grant will enhance Lasalle Secondary School’s Construction Technology program, exposing students to new and exciting learning opportunities,” he said. “When we connect the classroom to the community, learning becomes that much more relevant.”

Lasalle Secondary School Principal Jeff McKibbon said funds will enable students to build cabins on John Island as part of a long-established partnership with YMCA Sudbury. “We began building cabins on John Island several years ago under the leadership of carpentry teacher Peter Lucano and Co-operative Education teacher Rebecca Gauthier,” said Principal McKibbon. “These funds will allow a new group of students to gain hands-on experience in construction."

With this project, students earn credits in Construction Technology and gain level one in-school training in general carpentry while completing a dynamic Co-operative Education placement. The John Island Redevelopment Project has given aspiring general carpenters at Lasalle Secondary School an opportunity to develop skills while making a difference in the lives of youth who attend this popular summer camp. Hundreds of young people will continue to benefit from the new facilities at John Island.

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Media Contact:

Jeff McKibbon, Principal, Lasalle Secondary School,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-566-2280.