Arts education is growing and poised to grow further at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute (VCI).
According to Principal Ewen McIntosh, the after-school dance class has grown this year, and along with that growth, the school has engaged in a Real-World Learning project involving teacher-candidate students at the University of Ottawa.
“VCI students will provide dance-workshops and lessons that teacher-candidates can review, and teacher-candidates will provide learning in Drama, to provide VCI students an enhanced knowledge of stage presence,” McIntosh said.
He noted many VCI students in dance also participate in our Spring Drama production, so the Real-World Learning project is an opportunity intended to add value for all connected with the production.
As VCI’s Arts program continues to grow, the school is pursuing a Specialist High Skills Major Program in the Arts, pending support from the Ontario Ministry of Education.
“An Arts Specialist High Skills Major provides students increased access to programming through funding, enhanced Real-World Learning experiences, and certifications,” explained McIntosh.
Each year, all Arts courses are offered to VCI students and, based on student interest, those scheduled occur in the following year. McIntosh said he is proud of the work our students and staff at VCI have undertaken to pursue the Upper Canada District School Board’s strategy of creating Real-World Learning experiences, and he looks forward to continued growth in the school’s programs.
