Summer school students in the city are getting the chance to earn some extra credit.
The Thunder Bay District Catholic School Board has partnered with Confederation College to offer high school students attending summer school the opportunity to earn a college credit along with a high school credit.
The first-time initiative called Summer C.L.A.S.S. (Centre for Learning and Student Success) has caused summer school enrollment to skyrocket, said teacher Jim Keyes.
“We started the first day of registration with nearly 90 students,” he said.
Last year, 22 students signed up and 2011 saw 25 students.
The students can choose courses in nutrition, skilled trades and computer applications.
Keyes said the program is a great way for students to experience college while earning or making up for high school credits.
The courses are delivered by college instructors and hosting it at the college also makes it more central for students.
“It’s a much more inviting atmosphere for many of the students. They really enjoy being here,” said Keyes.
“We see students come into these experiences sometimes doubting their abilities. They come in and realize they can be successful in a college environment,” he added.
Superior Collegiate and Vocational Institute student Greg Knott is in the culinary course and said it’s made him consider a career in the kitchen.
The Grade 11 student thought it would be boring or he’d be getting yelled at like many of the chefs on reality cooking shows on TV.
“I like learning how to use the knives, the different tools,” he said. “The people here are really nice; everyone helps each other, which is great since I’m a bit of a novice.”
Fellow SCVI student Kathryn Lenton has found it valuable to pick up a college credit along with the high school one and she’s been learning many new things.
“We’re really fast paced and I like that,” she said. “We’re learning a lot of new recipes and the food is actually very good. I’m learning to try new things and it’s quite exciting.”
The courses are offered at no cost to the students and wrap up July 26.
