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Route 51 celebrates one year anniversary

Adrian Lysenko
Northern News Services
Published Wednesday, November 24, 2010

SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Route 51 Learning Institute - "an alternative for alternative types of young adults," according to one of its teachers - celebrated its one year anniversary last week.

The institute currently has 123 students registered who earned a total of 85 credits in September and October.

"It's beyond what we expected when we opened this school," said Joyce Whiteford, one of the two teachers at the institute.

"When we opened I wasn't exactly sure what type of students we'd have and found out they are an amazingly intelligent group. Some of these people had no credits last year or had dropped out (from high school). They were frustrated with the regular system."

The program is offered to students ages 16 to 21, who continue their high school education via Alberta distance learning courses on the Internet.

"What makes people alternative is exceptional creativity so they don't fit in a box: independent students, shift workers, as well as parents," said Whiteford.

Hannah Macleod, 16, said she had never received a 90 per cent grade in any subject before attending the facility.

"I've always been in and out school. I've never really had a full year of school, so I needed one last option," said Macleod.

Taylor Jacobs, 17, started going to the institute when she heard about it from Macleod and other friends who were there.

"I wasn't attending my math class," said Jacobs. "I always kind of struggled with math and now I'm able to work at it."

The girls agreed that nowadays without a high school diploma, you can't get far.

"Unless you want to work at a fast food place for the rest of your life," said Taylor Dwyer, 17, who likes the institute because of the flexible hours. She balances going to work and taking courses so she can save up for university.

When the learning institute operated by Yk Education District No. 1 opened its doors last year it had a start-up cost of $150,000.

Route 51 has also been expanding its programs by having students in work placements in the city, offering more art courses and the teachers are hoping to offer a stained glass course in time for Christmas.

With the number of students currently registered, the teachers aren't necessarily looking for more enrolment.

"We are almost maxed out," said Whiteford. "Expansion isn't the hugest thing; continuing success for students is."

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