Malaspina and Powell River School District expand dual credit programming

Malaspina University-College and the Powell River School District #47 (SD47) signed a new five-year agreement Friday that will result in an expansion of dual credit programming for Grade 12 students.

Officials for Malaspina and the school district signed a Memorandum of Understanding called the Powell River Learning Strategy, which formalizes educational collaboration between the two organizations. 

“Malaspina and the Powell River School District began offering dual credit programming a few years ago in four trades areas including carpentry, culinary arts, automotive service technician and welding,” explained Arlette Raaen, regional principal of Malaspina’s Powell River campus. “Students in grade 12 have been able to earn post-secondary credits for entry level trades training.

“Under the new Powell River Learning Strategy, we plan to expand dual credit programming to include university courses in English, Psychology, Spanish, Theatre, as well as the Early Childhood Education, Community Support Worker and Applied Business Technology certificate programs."

Malaspina’s partnership with School District #47 is growing, making the need for a formal agreement more important than ever, Raaen added. “Skill shortages are increasing, and with a high employment rate and aging population, it is essential that we encourage our youth to participate in post-secondary studies,” she said. “By starting post- secondary studies while still in Grade 12, students are able to move into the work force with relevant skills.”

Malaspina University-College President Dr. Ralph Nilson said the Powell River Learning Strategy responds to the learning needs of the Powell River area and acknowledges the potential social, cultural and economic benefits for the region.

“We’ve enjoyed a rich history of partnership with the Powell River School District for many years,” said Nilson, “and this new umbrella agreement defines and solidifies our collaboration in a more formal way. Malaspina and School District #47 will strive to encourage direct contact, as well as educational and research cooperation between their constituents, including students, faculty members, departments, staff, and research institutes."

The two organizations will endeavour to cooperate in providing:

·        joint educational and research activities to create pathways for student learning;

·        exchange of academic materials and academic publications to enhance programs and services;

·        community engagement on initiatives/projects of mutual interest;

·        engagement/exchange of other staff in educational projects;

·        joint strategies to enhance First Nations learning opportunities.

Jay Yule, Superintendent of Schools in Powell River, said the document formalizes the future direction of the School District.

“This partnership is the cornerstone of a collaborative effort to create seamless transitions for high school students to post-secondary education and the work place,” said Yule. “We are creating a joint strategy unique to the needs of our students, their families and the community.

“School District #47 Board of Trustees would like to recognize the efforts of Arlette Raaen locally and Edwin Deas, Malaspina’s Vice-President Administration and Bursar, for his vision and commitment to our local community, and Dr. Nilson for formally recognizing the value of our collaborative efforts.”

For further information, contact Arlette Raaen at (604) 485-8026.