The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) is introducing a groundbreaking new program at Stratford District Secondary School (SDSS), designed to give students a head start in careers related to law, emergency services, and community safety.
Starting this fall, students in grades 11 and 12 can enroll in the Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM), which is the first program of its kind within the AMDSB. The new initiative will offer students hands-on opportunities and connections to professionals working in the justice and public safety sectors.
"The new SDSS Justice, Community Safety, and Emergency Services Specialist High Skills Major will be a launchpad for students interested in a career as a police officer, firefighter, paramedic, parole/probation officer, lawyer, court clerk, border security agent, or in the armed forces," said Stuart Wilson, program lead. "Our new program will provide enhanced opportunities and experiences for our students with various public service community partners."
Through the SHSM program, students will participate in sector-specific learning activities, including facility tours, post-secondary campus visits, classroom experiences at colleges and universities, and co-op placements with community partners. The program will also introduce students to the growing field of restorative justice and involve collaboration with the AMDSB Indigenous Education team.
Specialist High Skills Major programs provide students with greater choice and customized, career-focused secondary school learning. These programs are designed to help students explore potential career paths, gain sector-recognized certifications, and establish valuable industry connections while earning a specialized Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
Full details about the new Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services SHSM program are available on the Avon Maitland District School Board website.