school authorities partnered with post-secondary institutions to provide dual-credit programming to more than 2,100 high school students. Expanding these opportunities for students not only brings value to their high school education, but also prepares them for success after graduation. New or enhanced dual credit opportunities in Alberta schools include carpentry and welding apprenticeships, training in artificial intelligence, health and agriculture technologies, and medical, among others. In 2021,Alberta’s government established collegiate schools as a new education model to create pathways for students to move directly into careers in their chosen field. In partnership with post-secondary institutions and industry partners, collegiates offer enriched programming, specialized facilities, and enhanced learning opportunities for students in grades 7 to 12. There are currently five collegiate schools operating across Alberta, with another seven set to open for the 2024/25 school year. Each of these schools has a specific focus on a high demand career or industry, including: science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), environmental science, aviation, agriculture, health care, and commercial driving. Career-based programming not only prepares students for the jobs they want, it also supports job creators with the skilled workers they need. LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE As Alberta grows and the economy diversifies, our education system must innovate and diversify along with it. There is no single model or approach to education that works for every student, which is why choice has become a fundamental pillar of Alberta’s education system. Rather than demanding students adapt to a single learning style, we have adapted our school system to better meet the needs of our diverse student population. MINISTER NICOLAIDES - OP ED
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