skills across different areas, including the trades. “You can’t build something if you don’t know how to measure a room,” Reece points out, illustrating the practical application of math skills in real-world scenarios. Transitioning to opportunities for older students, Reece elaborates on the cooperative education (co-op) placements and apprenticeship programs available through partnerships with community organizations. These programs allow students to gain hands-on experience in their fields of interest, with some even beginning their apprenticeships or securing employment.“We have several community partners who support our students in co-op placements,” Reece says, emphasizing the diversity of sectors and organizations involved. ENHANCING LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT The Algoma District School Board is advancing STEM and trade education, language proficiency, and infrastructure revitalization, illustrating its comprehensive approach to educational excellence and community service. Reece elucidates on the Ontario Virtual DELF Center’s significant role in bolstering French language education across the province. Since 2019, on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Education, the board has managed this center, facilitating the Diplome d’études en langue française (DELF), which assesses nonnative speakers’ French proficiency. This initiative aligns with the Common European Framework of Reference for languages, ensuring students’ language skills are recognized internationally. “Our French immersion program is a program of choice, and we believe students should have an opportunity to showcase the abilities they’ve developed,” Reece notes, highlighting the DELF’s role in providing an esteemed validation of students’ French language proficiency. Turning towards infrastructure development, Reece shares a compelling narrative of how the board seized an opportunity to repurpose and enhance 241 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 03 ALGOMA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
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