Algoma U opening doors for historically marginalized students

Peel District School Board in Mississauga and Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie (AU) are launching a pilot program that builds on their partnership to expand post-secondary access for underrepresented students.

The program is designed for secondary school students in grades 11 and 12, specifically from Black, Indigenous and other racialized, marginalized and underrepresented communities. The program will begin in the fall of 2023 and participants will be in two groups of up to 25 students per cohort from various PDSB schools.

“The program is focused on students who come from communities historically marginalized and underrepresented in the Region of Peel and in post-secondary education institutions,” said Director of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships at Algoma University David Marasco. “The aim of the program is to encourage students to view post-secondary education as a viable destination through engagement with classes, experiential learning and campus life at Algoma University.”

In addition to supporting students to continue their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requirements uninterrupted, students in the pilot program will have the opportunity to earn two university courses (six credits) and attend classes on a university campus. In addition, Algoma and the Peel board have partnered with Unity Technologies Inc., the world’s leading platform for creating and operating interactive, real-time 3D content, to provide students with an opportunity to receive an Associate Game Developer Certification while in the program.

“This partnership between PDSB and Algoma University stands to have a significant impact on Black, Indigenous and marginalized students. Promoting belonging, confidence and academic success, the program will also prepare students for a more skills-based economy, leading to successful future outcomes,” said Peel board Director of Education Rashmi Swarup. “We are very excited about the unique post-secondary experience our students will get on campus at Algoma University, as they envision future possibilities through this wonderful collaboration.”