PRSD to launch new high school virtual learning program
Peace River School Division (PRSD) is thrilled to announce the launch of a new high school virtual learning program available for the 2021-2022 school year. During a special board meeting held on May 10, 2021, the board of trustees approved the launch of the virtual learning program which will be located centrally at PRSD’s Central Operations facility in Grimshaw. The program will cater to students seeking high school programming and will be supported by dedicated virtual learning teachers and support staff.
Some key components of the program include:
● Transition of the current PRSD Blended Learning Program to a Virtual Learning Program
● Virtual learning, some outreach programming, Home Education and high school programming at PRSD Colony Schools will be supported within the new virtual learning program
● Consistent annual timetable of virtual high school courses division-wide
● Support of existing High School programming and partnerships in PRSD schools
● Asynchronous (student-directed) Instruction and Synchronous ( teacher-directed) instruction
Jessica Shaw, Vice-Principal at Grimshaw Public School was seconded to research and develop a proposal for virtual learning in PRSD for the board's consideration. As a part of her research, Shaw also engaged with several student and staff members currently participating in PRSD’s Blended Learning Program for their input. Shaw holds a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education with Distinction and a Masters of Education in Curriculum Studies which she completed online. In addition to her educational background and experience in delivering high school blended learning courses in PRSD, Shaw is also a PRSD graduate who took part in online learning while a student at Grimshaw Jr Sr High School.
“We are very excited to launch the virtual learning program in the fall” says PRSD Board Chair Darren Kuester. “The program will provide our students with greater options, support, flexibility and consistency throughout the division. The board of trustees extends appreciation to Jessica, and all those involved in bringing forward this very comprehensive and robust virtual learning program proposal and all those that will support the program for years to come.”