FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OPTIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES
1) What is O2?
O2 is a 3 year program at West Bedford High School that delivers the regular high school courses by alternate means. The students benefit by experiencing out of school activities and learning the curriculum by working together. The program exposes and prepares students to enter the workforce and postsecondary education through training, certification and connections to the real world.
2) Does it limit post secondary options?
Absolutely not! In fact it will prepare students for whatever they choose to pursue after high school. They can attend University, NSCC or enter the workforce. The program will better prepare students to pursue whatever future they choose.
3) How many students are accepted?
Every year WBH accepts 20 students into the program. There is an application process and every student will be interviewed that submits an application. Interviews will take place after March Break.
4) What courses do students take?
In the O2 program, students must take the following courses: Career Development 10, Community Based Learning 11 and three Cooperative Education courses. Students will also complete the other mandatory graduation courses such as Math, English, etc. Each year, the English course and one other course may be an O2 cohort course.
5) What is Community Based Learning?
It is a grade 10 course where, as a class, the students make connections between school and the real world. There are lots of guest speakers, field trips, hands-on experiences and certifications that make up this course. This year, for example, they will visit career fairs, the airport, NSCC, Recycling Centre, Feed NS and an entrepreneurship event. Students will have the opportunity to complete many credentials including First Aid/CPR, WHMIS Safety Training and Food Handler Safety Training.
6) What is CO-OP?
Cooperative education is a course where students have the opportunity to work in a field of their choosing for a minium of 80 hours. This usually occurs 1 day a week and takes place during the school day. This is a high school credit and some post-secondary institutions are recognizing it as a course for admission.
7) How is being in O2 different from being in regular classes?
In the O2 program, there are many more field trips and students will be exposed to many more career options. There is an 02 classroom that has chromebooks, round tables and comfortable chairs to help encourage collaboration. Students do develop a sense of family or community as they spend a lot of time together.
8) How long is the program?
The O2 program is 3 years that will give students an Options and Opportunities Certificate upon Graduation. This also provides a preferred seat at NSCC (although some programs do require interviews/portfolios). Graduating students may also choose to attend university, other colleges, begin an apprenticeship or head directly into the workforce.
9) Is it hard to catch up on missed work?
Although students do spend a lot of time out of the school - time is built into the day for students to make up missed work. Staff will be in communication with other teachers to ensure that field trip absences are recorded correctly.
10) Do you have to get good marks?
Of course - everyone wants good marks; however they are not required for admission into the program. It is the goal of the O2 teacher to ensure that students meet with success and pass all required courses.
11) Does it cost anything?
No, the Options and Opportunities program is a well funded program and supplies everything students will need.
12) How do I apply?
Applications are available through the guidance department located in Student Services as well as online through the WBHS website. Students will need to complete the application as well as obtain two reference letters - one from a teacher and one from a community member.
Interviews will take place in late February/March. All students who complete the application package by the deadline will receive an interview.
13) Can I remain in French Immersion?
Yes, you can! You are not excluded from any courses because of being in O2.
14) Can I take Skilled Trades and o2?
Yes, you can! You are not excluded from any courses because of being in O2.
15) Can I take AP Courses with o2 & Co-Op?
Yes, you can! You are not excluded from any courses because of being in O2.