Yellowknife (Feb 11/04) - Communities across the NWT can catch the college spirit without the stress of cracking the books this week.

Aurora College is inviting the public to join students in a series of events aimed at promoting the school.

After three months of winter and three more to go, the week's events will also provide some relief for students as they plod through their second semester.

"It's a week to promote the college to the community," says Jan Hodge, manager of the Yellowknife campus and one of the organizers.

"We're hoping it provides a little relief for the students," added Hodge.

All three college campuses and community learning centres across the Northwest Territories take part in the annual event.

At the Yellowknife campus, Hodge and staff will kick off the week with a luncheon to thank all the businesses and organizations that help the college provide education to Northerners.

"It's an opportunity to thank our partners and start the week," says Hodge.

Open house events where the public can learn about programs such as diamond cutting and polishing are slated during the week, allowing access that isn't available on a regular basis.

Stress relief for students is blended in with the educational events. Scavenger hunts, relay games and glow bowling are planned for the student body as well.

After last year's success with added entertainment, organizers decided a little jigging would be a hit. Lee Mandeville will take centre stage for the Northern Fiddle and Jig Dance, Feb. 19.

One of the benefits of a celebration like this is the integration of the student body, says Hodge.

Peter Mercredi, an adult basic education student at the Yellowknife campus, admits he's not familiar with other programs at the school.

"I'm sure it would be good to get to know everyone else," the Yellowknife resident says.

Mercredi will try to get to events as the week unfolds. Most activities are planned during lunch and in the evenings so classes aren't interrupted.

The concept behind the week of celebration makes sense to the 21-year-old.

"Anything that promotes the college is beneficial for everyone involved, either students interested in attending or the college itself," he says.