GNS Launch Pad
Introducing Launch pad
GNS Launch Pad is a unique program for students in grades 8-12, offering both a senior school course and co-curricular opportunity. It caters to students whose interests extend beyond the standard GNS curriculum. Our mission is to create a nurturing environment that fuels student innovation and fosters enduring connections for lifelong learning.
Embracing a dynamic 3-phase inquiry model, GNS Launch Pad capitalizes on the innate power of curiosity and passion. It sparks a transformative journey characterized by questioning, exploration, and personalized learning experiences. We empower students to venture into unexplored realms, view failure as a stepping stone to success, and overcome obstacles with unwavering resilience as they bring their ideas to fruition
Key information
What is it: A co-curricular open to students in Grades 8-12 and a for-credit Grade 11 or 12 course.
When will it take place: 2023-24 School Year, after school, once or twice per month, or on an as-needed basis.Â
Why: This class will provide students with support and collaboration to bring ideas to life. We will connect you to a broader network to support your learning and leave you with connections to support your future.
How will you succeed? This course will be assessed using a proficiency scale, based on your implementation of an inquiry process.
Your grade will be determined through a combination of self, peer, and educator assessments in relation to this scale.
Assessment Proficiency Scale
Additional Information
Our course will seamlessly blend in-person and online learning, offering the flexibility to accommodate a student's existing academic, personal, and co-curricular commitments. Classes will convene after school on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, ensuring convenient access to all participants. To enhance the experience, monthly touchpoints and a roster of guest speakers will foster regular opportunities for connection and collaboration.
With a keen focus on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the course will delve deep into inquiry processes and the design cycle. Students will embark on diverse projects, each tailored to their unique interests and objectives. Assessment will gauge their progress against course proficiency standards, spanning from emerging to extending proficiency levels. Our dedicated course facilitators will collaborate with community experts, guest speakers, and industry leaders, providing students with invaluable insights and personalized learning experiences. Whether students aim to refine existing ideas, explore pressing questions, or tackle new challenges within an inquiry framework, they will receive unwavering support.
In our ever-evolving knowledge-based society, the demand for practical skills and attitudes takes precedence over mere knowledge acquisition. This course seeks to identify the knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for effective inquiry within a student's chosen area of interest. By doing so, it empowers students to create, design, dream, and innovate across various disciplines, benefiting from interdisciplinary guidance from our esteemed faculty and community members.
Launch Pad students are also eligible to take courses and complete certifications through our GNS CISCO Networking Academy.
Click here to learn more about these exciting learning opportunities.
