Five Schools Chosen for Advanced-Studies Pilot Program

Five high schools will participate in pilot projects for the province’s new Advanced Studies Program this fall.

The Advanced Studies Program uses the Web and hands-on learning to meet the needs of bright and talented Grade 11 and 12 students. Based on the Nova Scotia curriculum, this program uses the most advanced information and communications technology to challenge those students who are ready to pursue advanced studies.

The schools are: Digby Regional High School, Richmond Academy in Louisdale, Dalbrae Academy in Mabou, Drumlin Heights Consolidated School in Argyle and Northeast Kings Education Centre in Canning.

Teachers from regional high schools participated in an Advanced Studies Program workshop held recently in Halifax.

"It’s probably the most exciting thing, especially for gifted students, that has come down the track in a long, long time,” said Therese Forsythe, who will be teaching the program at Northeast Kings in September.

“It has the potential to change the way that kids approach learning,” she said. “It further has the potential for our future adults to change the way that we problem-solve. It has significant potential for all students."

Grade 11 students taking the Advanced Studies Program will develop problem-solving, critical thinking and technological abilities in concert with core disciplines such as math, English and biology. The teachers are working eagerly to offer high- school students one of the greatest opportunities in education.

“This program is great,” said Ben Elms, principal of Digby Regional High. “It offers learners and teachers the opportunity to work collaboratively as a network across the province.

“The curriculum presents the learner with challenging activities which develop a wide range of skills as the learner pursues advanced study,” Mr. Elms said. “It''s an exciting way for our learners to gain a broader experience while still in school and at the same time earn possible advanced standing at university.”

After the pilot program in 2001-02, this program will be offered in schools across the province. It is expected that all high schools will have it by 2005.