ASPIRE

ASPIRE is a culturally responsive and relevant program that honours Mennonite faith, values, culture and language.

ASPIRE is an individualized program that incorporates lived experiences and interests through hands-on projects connected to curriculum expectations.

Through ASPIRE, students feel welcome and see themselves reflected in the curriculum.

What Makes ASPIRE Unique?

ASPIRE has many unique features to make Low German Mennonite students feel comfortable and welcome in school. These would include three low German-speaking teachers, devotions and prayer at the beginning of third period, and thoughtful incorporation of important religious practices and traditions into the lessons whenever possible. Also, our librarian has gathered numerous books about Mennonites and helps incorporate appropriate literature into the classrooms. Lastly, we perform acts of service in the school and surrounding neighbourhood so that students learn to appreciate their community. This includes seasonal chores at Menno Lodge, organizing school resources for the office staff, cleaning up the school yard, painting for the elderly, etc.

Curriculum/Courses

We will be offering the same compulsory courses as always: Math, English, and Science. These could be paired with History, Art, and Physical Education to inspire great projects. There are also a number of possible electives like German and International Languages, an Interdisciplinary Course, Parenting, Business, or Marketing.

Graduation Expectations

ASPIRE students must meet the same expectations as those on main campus. They need to earn 18 compulsory credits along with 12 optional ones. They also need to complete 40 hours of community involvement and must meet the provincial literacy requirement.

Compulsory credits

4 English credits (one in each grade)

3 math credits

2 science credits

1 Canadian history credit

1 Canadian geography credit

1 art credit

1 health and physical education credit

1 French credit (This credit can be exchanged for another)

0.5 career studies credit

0.5 civics credit

English Language Learners

Students take ESL classes to improve their proficiency in the English language. The program meets students at their educational level in both English and math. A dynamic group of educators deliver courses that are level appropriate for language learners and differentiate instruction to meet each student’s educational needs and goals.

The courses are designated according to levels of proficiency in English literacy and numeracy development, not by grade.

ASPIRE Schedule

9/10 program – Project Based Learning focus
(Monday) Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday (Friday) - flexible schedule to respect your family time and priorities (Monday and Friday are optional)
Project based assignments in the afternoons
compulsories in the morning

11/12 (experiential learning)
Tuesday evening 6-8 pm
Connecting courses to work placements/interests

Coop opportunities

Co-op

Co-op is a course in grade 11 and 12 that is a partnership between school and work. Students use their current job as a placement.

Through a variety of assignments, students continue to learn about workplace safety, job skills, and career exploration. Throughout the course, students complete weekly log sheets and reflections. Co-op is a great way to learn about a career!

Valuing culture and traditions

ASPIRE values Mennonite faith and traditions by incorporating the Mennonite culture into school activities such as art, writing, murals, and group crafting. They also connect the curriculum to culture through food, language, and projects. ASPIRE respects the values of the students by honouring their faith based holidays, and respecting their family responsibilities by allowing the students to have a flexible schedule.

ASPIRE Staff

Ms. Tenk

Ms. Russell

Mr. Dyck

Ms. Chibueze

Ms. Bryant

Guidance

Guidance Counsellors available to support students:
- career plans
- course selections
- graduation plans
- mental health needs

Graduation reminders
- 30 credits for a diploma
- 40 volunteer hours
- online courses*opt out option

Availability
- Counsellors available during the day for in person appointments or phone appointments
- Counsellors attend evening ASPIRE evenings at the start of each semester and as required throughout the year

For more information, check out the EESS website: eastelgin.tvdsb.ca/en/index.aspx

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11

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