Six Nations Polytechnic's STEAM Academy praised in its pilot year

The STEAM Academy program at Six Nations Polytechnic is unique and exciting, says Indigenous Services Minister Jane Philpott, who toured the school Monday.

"I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like this," she said.

"It really is a one of a kind program and it's very exciting and certainly something that I'll be sharing with other communities as Icontinue my travels across the country."

The school at the polytechnic'scampus in Brantford, Ont.,combinesOntario Secondary School and Ontario College curriculums across the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

The students enrolin Grade 9 and can begin taking college-level courses as early as Grade 10. Infiveto six years, studentsgraduate withboth an Ontario Secondary School diploma as well as an Ontario College diploma.

"The STEAM Academy's approach to learning is nothing short of revolutionary," saidPhilpott.

The academy is open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, an aspect of the program whichPhilpott says speaks directly to reconciliation.

The curriculum combinestraditional Indigenous knowledge with classes that meet education standards across the province.

"The STEAM Academy forms another pillar in Six Nations Polytechnic's commitment to offering all students an innovative, high quality, culturally rich educational experience," said Aaron Hobbs, principal of the STEAM Academy.

Indigenous Services Canada provided funding to assist in the launch of the academy's pilot program year and continues to provide support for Six Nations Polytechnic for post-secondary education and tuition.

After hertour of the STEAM Academy,Philpotttravelled to Six Nations of the Grand River Reserve to announce the expansion of a water treatment plant. The extension will provide treated water to two federallyfunded schools that previous had their water delivered by truck.

In a news release, Six Nations Chief Ava Hill said this water main extension is the first phase toward expanding the water distribution system throughout the entire community.