Frequently Asked Questions

  

Why Grade 10 Students? 

Grade 10 students are an ideal fit for the Building Futures program for a variety of reasons. They are old enough to safely work on a job site, and mature enough to grow from this opportunity. Grade 10 students will be able to earn over 50 credits in this program, which would enable them to have a reduced course load in Grades 11 and 12.

What will they learn? 

Students will be taught the required academic subjects—English, Math, Science and Social Studies—along with Physical Education, CALM and a variety of personalized option courses, which can be tailored to each student's interests. We have shared a list of the standard academic and CTS courses, yet the opportunities and choices are endless!

By working in a practical, real-life learning environment, students will also master their communication, relationship and business skills. 

From site excavation and pouring the foundation to finishing interior details and learning the basics of selling a house, students develop a strong work ethic and gain knowledge on possible career paths.

Are the students on the work site every day?

This program follows the Parkland School Division calendar in the same way every other school in the Division does. The Building Futures classroom is based out of Spruce Grove Composite High School from September to January, then moves to the build site once the garage has been constructed and is ready for classroom use.

Will students need to drive to the work site? 

No. Transportation to the work site will be arranged through Parkland School Division’s Transportation Department.

Will students be able to leave the site during their lunch time?

Building Futures is an open campus program. While the site remains supervised for those who wish to stay, students are free to leave during their lunchtime. Should parents or guardians prefer their child remain on site, they may simply contact the teacher to let them know.

Can students still participate in extracurricular activities? 

Yes. Building Futures is scheduled during the regular school day, and therefore students should not encounter problems making it on time for extracurricular activities. Although students learn off-site, they are still members of their home school community.

How much does Building Futures cost?

An additional cost of $200 is charged to cover field trips and consumables. Students will need to provide their own school supplies, as well as some of the personal equipment they will be using on the job site. Please refer to the Program Details page for a supply list and more specific information.

What career opportunities could students be exposed to?

The list is endless. Students will be taught first-hand by carpenters, plumbers, electricians, landscapers, project managers, interior designers, real estate agents, site supervisors, project managers and countless other professionals.

Will students be allowed to participate if they have no previous experience with tools or trades?

Yes! We expect no previous knowledge and will teach each skill as needed.

Can students apprentice during this experience?

No. Students will not be able to apprentice during their year in Building Futures. However, this experience will allow them to witness many different trades in action, and provide the knowledge to make a more sound decision about their future career endeavours.

How many students will be in the class? 

Between 28 and 32 students will be part of the Building Futures class.

Will students be challenged academically?

Yes. This experience will benefit most types of learners. Teachers deliver the curriculum in a personalized academic manner. Our hands-on approach and project-based model are designed to encourage and foster problem-solving skills, creativity and innovation and digital competency.

Who will educate the students?

The students will be taught by two Parkland School Division subject-specific teachers. As it is in any school, academic delivery is the responsibility of the teachers. A site supervisor from Coventry Homes will also work closely with students to demonstrate the various competencies in building the home. This extremely low student-teacher ratio helps to maximize student learning.

Why are you offering this experience?

We believe students learn best when they are engaged in real-life, relevant learning experiences. As in life, everything learned in Building Futures is interconnected and built upon the idea of growth and prosperity.

How do we sign up? 

Please visit the How to Register page to apply for the program.