A new program combining online learning, personal inquiry and mentorship from teachers and members of the community is generating interest from School District 43 students and their families, says the principal.
The program was approved last week by the SD43 board of education and was featured in a front-page article in The Tri-City News.
Stephen Whiffin, principal of Coquitlam Open Learning and the new Inquiry Hub, said he has received so many calls about the Grade 8-to-12 program that a FAQ sheet has been added to the hub website at www.inquiryhub.org.
The program is set to start in September and run out of the former Millside elementary school but students won't spend a lot of time in the classroom. Instead, they'll be out in the community and working on their computers to pursue their interests in topics such as community and global issues, environmental sustainability, media art and design and technology.
It may appeal to a broad range of students, including those who want to apply their learning in practical ways, have difficulty focusing in regular structured class settings, are interested in doing deep research on a specific subject of interest, enjoy learning with technology, are interested in learning through social networks or have a strong sense of direction and want to make a difference it he world.
An orientation session for parents and students is planned for Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Gallery Room at Winslow Centre, 1100 Winslow Ave., Coquitlam.
Students living outside SD43 can apply for the program. Graduates will receive a regular Dogwood diploma and can apply for post-secondary education as they would from any other school.
