Innovative and creative program prioritizes students from marginalized and equity-deserving groups

BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been three years since the Learners Early Access Program (LEAP) program was launched as a partnership between the PDSB and Algoma University. This innovative and creative program involves prioritizing students from marginalized and equity-deserving groups and providing them with an immersive university experience. There were 31 students who graduated at a special ceremony held at Brampton City Hall.

There are a range of first-year course options that grade 11 and 12 students can choose from according to the website: algomau.ca/students such as:

• Introduction to Canadian Business
• Computer Applications
• Introduction to ESports
• Introduction to Psychology
• Community, Economic, and Social Development
• Introduction to Social Work

“This celebration is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to support students throughout their educational journey.”

Students get a taste of the Algoma experience with these incredible resources and supports:

• Program orientation session(s)
• Mentorship opportunities with current Algoma University students
• All campus spaces including classrooms, computer labs, student centre, student lounges, meeting rooms, multi-faith and spirituality rooms
• Tools like printers, computers, required texts
• Learning strategists and accessibility support
• Post-Secondary application support sessions including application vouchers, additional scholarship eligibility, and a trip to the Ontario University Fair (OUF)
• 1:1 engagement with university professors
• All campus events and activities

The full cost of $690 for each course is covered. In addition, the students get: a $246 YMCA Membership (Youth Pass x 6 months), a $708 Transportation Pass (Monthly Bus Pass x 6 months,) 40% off a Go Transit Discount and a $6,000 Bursary towards a Algoma University Post-Secondary Degree.

Rashmi Swarup states, “The dedication and hard work behind LEAP have been truly transformative equipping our secondary school students with the skills and mindset needed for life beyond graduation. It’s been incredible to witness the growing sense of energy and possibility within them-there is a shared belief that everything is within reach. As the students step into post-secondary environments, they’ll do so with the confidence and preparation to fully embrace the opportunities ahead. This is the vision we have always had for them, and seeing it come to life is nothing short of inspiring.”

Dave Trudelle, Associate Vice-President, Student Affairs of Algoma University states, “This celebration is a testament to what can be achieved when we work together to support students throughout their educational journey. We are incredibly proud of this graduating cohort and the transformative partnership between: Algoma University, PDSB and Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB).”

Julie Tidman, Director/Principal of LEAP states, “Congratulations on your achievements at LEAP this semester. It is an absolute pleasure being part of the LEAP Team and having the opportunity to learn alongside this fine group of secondary students. I thank you for sharing your academic journey with me and taking the first of many leaps, I suspect, into your post-secondary future.”

Dr. Marianne Mazzaratio, Director of Education for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) states, “We are so very pleased with the DPCDSB students who have displayed such tremendous growth and achievement through LEAP. We congratulate them and collectively stand with them as they continue to move forward on their education journey. May God continue to bless them and inspire them to do great things.”