Magnet programs maintained and more supports for community schools

Magnet programs in Rainbow secondary schools are being maintained with transportation. At the regular Board meeting held on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, trustees also approved that community schools continue to receive additional supports through consultation and direct input of staff and the school community with timelines for implementation. Executive Council will provide the Board with guidelines and timelines at their next meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2015.

Schools with magnet programs will be required to review their mandates in keeping with their mission statement, set of core beliefs, student learning outcomes and admission requirements every five years. Magnet programs include the Arts Education Program at Sudbury Secondary School, the Science Technology Education Program at Lockerby Composite School, the International Baccalaureate Program at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School and the Integrated Technology Program at Lively District Secondary School.

This brings to a close an indepth review of magnet programs carried out through the lens of student achievement and well-being. The review included a third party analysis of student achievement data and transportation costs, information gathered from principals, School Council Chairs, students and teachers, as well as public presentations.

“We would like to thank the many students, parents/guardians, School Council members and graduates who made presentations as part of the review process,” said Director of Education Norm Blaseg. “We appreciated the input that we received.”

Background:

The Arts Education Program at Sudbury Secondary School was established in 1985.  Students earn eight credits in the Arts Education program.  Students graduate with a locally developed Arts Education Certificate.

The Science and Technology Education Program (STEP) at Lockerby Composite School was established in 1991.  Students earn 13 designated credits in the area of science and technology.  Students graduate with a locally developed STEP Certificate. 

The International Baccalaureate Program (I.B.) at Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School was established in 1999/2001.  Students earn credits in designated I.B. courses, write six exams, and complete the Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) requirement.  Students graduate with an I.B. Diploma.

The Integrated Technology Program (IT) at Lively District Secondary School was established in 2002.   Students earn six technology credits.  Students graduate with a locally developed Integrated Technology Certificate. 

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Media Contact:

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