Okanagan College Media Release - Feb. 5, 2008

Jim Hamilton and Moyra Baxter

Okanagan College and School District 23 are building on a strong partnership to provide more opportunities for high school students in a variety of programs.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed today by Moyra Baxter, Chairperson for the Board of Education of School District 23 and Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton will expand access for learners throughout the region in the area of health care and beyond. 

The alliance between two of the region’s key education providers will expand access and opportunities for students, promote collaborative programming and provide a foundation for further partnership.

“It is very important for the School District to find opportunities for our students that will serve them well during their school years and into their professional lives,” said Baxter. “We are very pleased to be able to work with Okanagan College on these dual credit programs.”

The MOU was signed in the College’s Home Support/Resident Care Attendant classroom, where eight of the district’s secondary students are currently receiving advanced training as a result of the partnership.

This commitment will build upon the success of a prior agreement between School District 23 and Okanagan College, that opened the door for district students to receive trades training at the College. Prior to enrolling in the dual credit programs the students receive academic advice and support from the School District to ensure they will successfully complete the college program while achieving high school graduation requirements. The expansion of this partnership to include health programs will take the partnership one step further.

“Today’s MOU signing confirms our commitment to a strong and ongoing partnership between Okanagan College and School District 23,” said Hamilton. “This agreement is producing real results for our students and our community.”