Clearview’s Board has been successful in its effort to obtain funding that will support the enhancement of welding programs for students.
The Board recently received a letter dated Dec. 7, 2022 from Alberta Education Minister, Adriana LaGrange, granting $100,000 “to support welding apprenticeship opportunities for students.”
“We’re really pleased to receive this news,” says Guy Neitz, Clearview Board Chair. “The funding will go a long way in helping us support students in their career exploration and preparation. Thank you to Minister LaGrange and Alberta Education for your investment in our students.”
On Oct.5, 2022, the Board sent a letter to LaGrange, asking for reconsideration for funding after Clearview’s original request was not granted. Neitz said in the letter that enrollment and engagement in Career Technology Studies (CTS) fabrication courses (welding) is experiencing significant growth and is in high demand in our area.
He also pointed out that post-secondary training for welding requires significant travel, so providing access to training in our communities creates a significant opportunity for high school students.
LaGrange said in her Dec. 7, 2022 letter, which granted the $100,000 to Clearview, that she “commend[s] Clearview Public Schools on its ongoing efforts to provide rural students with opportunities for career education that improve their employability skills and abilities and increase their workplace readiness.”
Daram Van Oers, Clearview Deputy Superintendent, says Clearview is experiencing a demand for welding instruction, and that “it would be ideal to have students trained on industry-standard equipment using industry-standard techniques.” Van Oers says, “That is expensive to do, and relying on post-secondaries isn’t always best for each learner.
“This grant will allow us to support students and help them transition into job opportunities and careers in high-demand, skilled trades.”
Clearview will use the funding to upgrade equipment at Wm. E. Hay Stettler Secondary Campus, and Gus Wetter School in Castor. Clearview also has high school students at Coronation School.
Coronation School saw some financial investment in welding equipment a few years ago and that equipment currently meets industry standards.
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