June 16, 2010
To: / Board of Trustees
From: / D. Lindquist, Superintendent of Schools
Subject: / Jasper Mountain College Concept
Originator: / Dean Lindquist
Resource: / James Bartram (3V to Board Room)
RECOMMENDATION
That the Board approve administration’s research of the Jasper Mountain College as part of the division’s International Education Programand establishment of this program providing potential partners are able to provide the support needed.
REPORT
Background:
GYPSD, over the past two years, has strived to build a strong International Education Program. James Bartram is working on developing the Jasper Mountain College Concept (see attached). This would be a short stay program for students from within and beyond Canadian borders to attend. The program duration would be six weeks, with educational programming provided at Jasper Junior Senior High School, and afternoon programming provided at Marmot Basin. The Palisades Stewardship Center staff would provide programming for evenings and weekends.
Context of the Recommendation:
To move this forward, discussions will have to be held with Marmot Basin to ascertain interest. However, the first step is to gauge Board interest in this program and receive authorization to proceed with the program.
There is some interest from International students for summer programs. The basis for offering this program is that there may be interest for short term winter programs for students that would further highlight the Division’s International Education Program.
Conclusion:
The Board should determine if there is interest in moving forward with this program providing we are able to access the supports required for this program to be successful.
This proposal presents the model for an international short stay college administered by Grande Yellowhead Public Schools, supported by The Parks Canada (Palisades) Stewardship Education Centre and Ski Marmot basin. The program will enhance the education opportunities for GYRD youth as well as create a significant increase in capacity for the international sector for GYPSD. It will provide residential programs based on best practices for winter travel and mountain environments, stewardship values and Canadian studies.
This initiative will offer educational programs second to none, by capitalising on the unique learning environment of Jasper National Park, coupled with the capacity of Marmot Basin as a leader in ski industry training, the highly supportive Jasper High School and community.
Core Program
The vision for this initiative is to provide a six week program, where youth are in residence at the Palisades, spend their morning in class at the Jasper High School, afternoons enrolled in the ski instructor training program at Marmot Basin with evening and weekend programs provided by The Parks Canada Palisades Stewardship Education Centre. Assuming sufficient interest can be generated each cohort of 20 youth will underwrite 4 free places for GYPSD youth.
Complimentary Programs
The structure of Jasper Mountain College will also provide a framework for other short stay international student programs, such as ESL summer camps and excursions.
Possible Futures
The intention is to offer one six week session commencing in January 2011, based on successful enrolment this may be expanded to two six week sessions for 2012. At this time a cost benefit analysis will be undertaken to consider a spring program focusing on water based activities such as canoeing and kayaking.