Pathway Programs at Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board

Em Del Sordo and Margot Burnell Cimba from the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board gave an overview of the Pathway Programs offered by the school board. The program consists of Cooperative Education, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, Specialist High Skills Majors, and the Dual Credit Programs. Most of their presentation centred around the SHSM and the Dual Credit pieces.

SHSM buddles 8 to 10 courses together in Grades 11 and 12 to allow students to focus their learning on a specific sector. Sectors include Arts and Culture, Aerospace and Aviation, Construction, Energy, Environment, Health and Wellness, Horticulture and Landscaping, Hospitality and Tourism, Information and Communication Technology, Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services, and Manufacturing. To receive the SHSM designation on their diplomas, students must complete industry recognized certifications, complete units of work related to their sector of choice ( Math, English, Science) and at least 2 credits through Co-op.

The Dual Credit Program is offered through Mohawk College. Here, students earn credits that count towards both their high school diploma and a college diploma.

The purpose of the Pathways Program is to offer more ways to help students focus on their learning and support their learning. Apprenticeship, College, University, Workplace and Community Living are all choices students can make to further their education and prepare for the world of work.