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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, M ay 30 ,2 01 9 | 12 People learn in differ- ent ways. It's well-established that the traditional pen, paper, sit at a desk model of education does not work well for everyone. But, the alternative is gen- erally very expensive. After almost 30 years of operation the well-loved Trailhead and Bronte Creek Projects have been recommended for elimi- nation by the Halton Dis- trict School Board citing the high cost of the pro- gram and the current need to find efficiencies. The one semester, four- credit environmental leadership program takes a completely unique ap- proach to high school edu- cation. Students hike, snowshoe, go on multiday trips to Algonquin Park, learn practical skills and explore environmental is- sues with a hands-on ap- proach all in a smaller class size than is stan- dard. The program is widely praised by current and former students, ad- ministrators and parents who say it had a world of difference on their chil- dren. Shaelyn DesRoches is a Grade 10 student current- ly enrolled in Trailhead. She describes the pro- gram as nothing short of transformative. "I found my true self at this school," said Des- Roches. "Because I was al- ways on my phone, I al- ways tried to be like every- one else and when I came here we're not allowed our phones. We try to limit the phone use so we actually have contact and interac- tion. It's face-to-face in- stead of talking to some- body miles away. It helps to get to know each other better." While the program isn't specifically for a stu- dent having a hard time in traditional classes, it does appear to be good for them. DesRoches said she always found it hard to fit in and focus in the stan- dard classroom. It's important to note that the quality and effec- tiveness of the program really isn't in question - it's just the cost. When discussing the proposed cut at a recent meeting David Boag, asso- ciate director of educa- tion, specifically noted how positive they believe it to be. "We talk about this just about every year at bud- get time because it's a very expensive program," said Boag. "There's no dis- agreement around the quality of the program; we think it's a good program for kids. We've debated it afor kids. We've debated it af lot this year." For much of its 30-year history, the Bronte Creek Project had between 60-80 students per year with a wait-list. About 13 years ago, due to dwindling numbers, the program was divided into two, one for grades 11,12 and a newfor grades 11,12 and a newf Grade 10 course now called Trailhead. Combine that with re- cently announced chang- es by the province for edu- cation funding and what you get is a board looking to make cuts. A May 8 re- port to the board specifi- NEWS HALTON'S BELOVED ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM SET FOR CUT Shaelyn Desroches is a passionate student in the Trail Head program. She believes the program has helped her grow exponentially and wants to ensure the program is still an option for future students. Nikki Wesley/Torstar See MANY, page 14 THE ISSUE: EDUCATION CUTS LEADING TO THE END OF A POPULAR PROGRAM LOCAL IMPACT: STUDENTS LOSE A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR A DIFFERENT TYPE OF EDUCATION ROLAND CILLIERS rcilliers@metroland.com Classique-Decor.com Southoakville Centre (formerly Hopedale Mall)1515 Rebecca Street, Oakville 905.847.2975 Store Closing Oakvillelocation Only 50%Off lOwesttiCketeDPriCe* chestmirror console cabinet lamp *In stockmerchandise only. ALL SALES FINAL. everything Must Go! Vases assorteD pilloWs art store Closes June 15th Promo Code NSP-DEMO-OAKB No-costHearing tests areprovided toadults ages 19andolder. A fee will apply for a copy of your audiogram. Child hearing tests are conductedat select locations for a fee, please contact us for more information. Some conditions may apply. Please see clinic for details. Offer not valid in Quebec. ±https://www. oticon.ca/solutions/opn Call or book online: HearingLife.ca/DemoDays Call toll-free 1-855-750-8017 IS HEARING AWARENESSAWARENESSAW M Y MONTH LIMITED TIME - TRY THEM YOURSELF HEARING AID DEMO DAYS Demo Days offer you the opportunity to discover how hearing aids can improve your hearing experience. Have one of our certified hearing professionals demonstrate the powerful advancements of our hearing aid technology.± Plus, when you visit us, you will receive a FREE, no obligation hearing test! What are Demo Days? JUNE DEMO DAYS Can you see it? 2 clinics in Oakville MON TUES WED THUR 3 4 5 6