The Ministry of Education's Student Success Strategy helps students in Grades 7 to 12 customize their education to their individual strengths, goals and interests. Through our school programs, the Board is committed to equipping all students with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and experiences they need for successful outcomes that will ensure smooth transitions to the post-secondary destinations of their choice.
In Limestone, we value every program pathway that students follow to find meaningful careers and become valued members of our society. Our goal is to support students in high levels of achievement in programs that lead toward their life destinations.
A program pathway is a selection of credits and experiences a student may create or choose in secondary school in one of four possible post-secondary destinations:
- Apprenticeship Programs
- College
- University
- Workplace
There is value in all post-secondary destinations and all sectors of employment. A student's pathway is his or her educational program and reflects the goals that help motivate him or her to complete secondary school. Building a successful pathway through school requires planning, and is a cooperative effort involving students, parent/guardians, teachers and guidance counselors.
Factors that must be considered in planning include:
- Most recent levels of achievement;
- Preferred learning style;
- Strengths, interests and abilities; and
- Immediate educational needs.
The Limestone District School Board offers a variety of areas of opportunities for students who are interested in expanded opportunities, including:
- SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major)
- OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program)
- Dual Credit
- SWAC (School Within a College)
- Limestone/ Ontario Skills Competitions
The Specialist High Skills Major program focuses on economic sectors for students in all pathways, guiding students in specialized high school courses and work opportunities while completing the required credits to graduate high school. It is a great way to obtain specialized training and certifications for destinations during and after high school.
OYAP is a specialized program in high school that allows you to explore apprenticeship and consider careers in the skilled trades, generally starting in Grade 11 or Grade 12 through the cooperative education program. Hands-on learning activates more parts of the brain and is great for retention. The apprenticeship pathway combines in-class and on-the-job training opportunities to maximize learning and skill development.
The Skills Competition offers students a unique opportunity to demonstrate that they are the best of the best. During the competition, students are provided with a scope, plans, and material to complete a project or task that is judged by members of that industry. Winners are awarded gold, silver, or bronze medals and the opportunity to compete at the Provincial or National Competition.