In November 2006, Stewiacke Valley was designated an Innovative Learning Community, along with Great village and Tatamagouche. Through this project, CoRDA is working in partnership with local training providers and community organizations to foster an environment for learning and innovation. Courses for academic upgrading and skills development that were only available in larger areas will be held throughout the Valley via the Upper Stewiacke Community School and the Middle Stewiacke Recreation Association. In the future, these organizations will be working to provide computer instruction, academic upgrading and GED courses through CALA, as well as, portfolio development and personal dimensions workshops. To help celebrate the Stewiacke Valley Learning Community designation, Upper Stewiacke Community Association hosted an Exposition in April 2007, where more than 60 businesses and organizations showcased their various initiatives. Feedback from visitors to the EXPO helped to identify interest and demand for courses to be offered in the fall of 2007. If anyone has questions or suggestions regarding the SVLC initiative, call Diane Jackson at 671-2918 or Anna Parks at 671-2666; aparks@corda.ca
The North Shore Community Development Association, working with CoRDA, CALA and Open Doors has formed the Tatamagouche Learning Community Network. Through this initiative, TLCN is providing learning opportunities to assist adults in North Colchester acquire the skills and qualifications they need to participate in the work force, Over the past few months, TLCN has delivered a variety of programs and workshops to local employees. The North Shore Service Excellence Program organized by North Shore Community Development Association, Open Doors and Central Nova Tourism Association included workshops for Food Handlers, Beverage Servers, Super Host and WHMIS training. Programs for the fall of 2007 include tutorials in EXCEL. WORD, PowerPoint, as well as academic upgrading and GED programs offered through CALA For more information about TLCN, contact Lisa Redmond at 657-3811; lredmond@corda.ca
That 95% of Commercial Safety College’s tractor trailer graduates are employed approximately 1 to 2 months after completing the program!