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. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring our youth are prepared for life beyond the classroom. We want our children to be fulfilled, successful, and active in building our province, as we prepare today’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Minister Nicolaides 236 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04
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