Group presents alternative-school plans to residents

Thunder Bay parents are speaking out about their thoughts on the idea of an alternative-education public school for elementary-aged students.

A group of about 50 people turned out to a community meeting held by the Northern Lights Education Initiative last night. The meeting was designed to let the public find out more about what's involved in the Initiative's goal to create a holistic education environment in the city.

While the idea of the school is still in the early stages, some Thunder Bay residents say they're interested in having educational choices for their elementary school children.

The group hopes to present their alternative education proposal to the Lakehead School Board in December.

Director of Education Cathi Siemieniuk said the board is always interested in hearing new ideas, but added that they have not yet heard from the Northern Lights group.

Siemieniuk said she believes the current schooling structure in Thunder Bay works well in providing quality education.