create spaces for students to explore and grow their skills in technology and trades. “This exciting project involves local and national partners,” Santa Maria notes, pointing out the collaborative effort to redefine and destigmatize trades and technology education. Further getting into the specifics of this project, Santa Maria explains that the technology center is not a standalone facility but is integrated within the high school, with the aim of promoting a seamless educational experience. He proudly mentions a partnership with the Holmes Group, through Sal Dan Developments, led by renowned contractor Mike Holmes and his children, Mike Junior and Sherry. “Having the Holmes Group, as well as IDEAArchitects, national and local partners, and contractors and subcontractors involved, brings invaluable insight into what the future of trades and technology education could look like,” Santa Maria reflects, emphasizing the strategic meetings with one of the executive members of the Holmes Group to shape the project’s direction. +1 705-542-8197 • NICK@JOBSTBROTHERS.COM ELEVATING CORE ACADEMICS THROUGH INNOVATIVE INITIATIVES The Algoma District School Board is also revisiting and revitalizing its approach to core academic skills, particularly in literacy and numeracy. Reece discusses the renewed focus and initiatives to strengthen these foundational areas, which are crucial for students’ success. “Our province has tried to refocus all school boards backonto literacy and numeracy,”she states,indicating a shift towards implementing research-based changes in literacy programs. This period represents an exciting evolution in literacy education, with the board reviewing current methodologies, and where necessary, adopting new, innovative, evidence-based approaches. In mathematics, the emphasis is on establishing strong connections to STEAM disciplines and the trades, underscoring the importance of math in various fields. Reece highlights the focus on authentic tasks and transferable problem-solving 239 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 03 ALGOMA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
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