(Fort McMurray, AB - June 29th, 2023) Frank Spragins High School is a specialised institution in high school education that caters to students seeking a less traditional learning environment. With its unique blend of assisted self-paced instruction and independent learning, Frank Spragins offers a flexible and adaptable approach to education that is not commonly found in traditional high schools.
Students at Frank Spragins are not limited by geographical or time constraints, as they can access all core high school courses offered through flexible online modules available via Google Classroom. This approach allows learners to study at their own pace, and with the support of the school's knowledgeable and dedicated staff, they can complete their studies within a time frame that works for them.
In addition to online modules, on-campus students can also avail themselves of in-class courses taught through guided instruction, typically over a shorter time frame. Attendance is not mandatory, but students who opt to attend can take advantage of the opportunity to supplement their learning with face-to-face interaction with their peers and instructors.
The learning experience at Frank Spragins is designed to be as flexible and accommodating as possible, with students able to create and customise their schedules according to their individual needs, obligations, and goals. The school's administrative team always provides guidance and support as students navigate the curriculum.
Frank Spragins offers a welcoming and inclusive space for learners struggling with a more traditional high school setting. With an emphasis on mental health support, the school's dedicated staff includes a mental health therapist available to provide guidance and counselling. Additionally, the school's food program ensures that students have access to healthy and nutritious meals throughout the day, free of charge.
For students who wish to earn while they learn, the school offers a variety of work experience programs, including the RAP program, which allows students to earn a salary while completing credits towards their diploma. Apprenticeship programs in the trades are also available, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in their chosen field of study.
Frank Spragins currently boasts an enrollment of 300 students, which matches pre-COVID numbers despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and changes in funding. Moreover, the school is proud to announce that it has produced 61 graduates this year, marking the highest number since 2018.
Principal James Hayward, the head of Frank Spragins High School, firmly believes that providing an alternative environment with built-in flexibility is the key to unlocking students' full potential.
"Frank Spragins High School fills an essential need here in our community. As Fort McMurray's most experienced Outreach program, we understand that some students will not learn to their best potential in a mainstream school environment, and by providing an alternative environment with built-in flexibility, we allow those students to be successful. We are all about supporting students no matter their challenges, and our structure allows us to build positive relationships with our students, which is often not possible in the mainstream school environment. For these reasons, our students often report decreased anxiety and a strong sense of belonging, ultimately leading to student success!"
This sentiment is echoed throughout the school's program, tailored to maximize success for students who may not excel in traditional classroom settings. The dedicated staff at Frank Spragins High School recognize that each student has unique challenges and needs and works tirelessly to ensure that these are addressed and overcome. With a focus on building strong relationships with its students, Frank Spragins stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for those who may have struggled to succeed elsewhere. The school's commitment to supporting and encouraging its students has resulted in a thriving community of learners who feel valued and empowered in their education.
Frank Spragins High School provides students with a unique and innovative approach to high school education, one that is grounded in flexibility, inclusivity, and student-centred learning. With its range of courses, work experience programs, mental health counselling, and food programs, Frank Spragins is a school that caters to its students' diverse and individualized needs.
For additional information, contact:
Momin Syed
Communications Coordinator
Fort McMurray Public School Division
780-788-8009
communications@fmpsd.ab.ca