Montana Doell, one of 12 high school students to complete the Aboriginal TRU Start program at TRU. The one-semester program wrapped up this week.
Twelve Aboriginal high school students from Kamloops and area have just finished getting a jump-start on their university schooling thanks to a pilot project between Thompson Rivers University and School District 73.
The pilot—called Aboriginal TRU Start Program—saw the students take three university-level courses at TRU in order to experience university life. The program started in February and ends April 27 with a celebration lunch.
“This program has dual benefits to the students involved,” said Thompson Rivers University Dean of Students Christine Adam. “The students can apply the credits to their future in university and towards their high school completion.”
Some of the students involved had already planned to enter university, while others were on the fence.
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Read more about Montana Doell’s
experience with the Aboriginal TRU Start Program
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Students enrolled in English, biology and statistics courses and were provided with mentors to help with the transition from a high school learning environment to a university environment. Thompson Rivers University worked with the school district to develop course content that respects and integrates Aboriginal knowledge.
“We wanted the students to know that the stories and knowledge passed down by previous generations is valuable,” said Joanne Brown, coordinator of services for Aboriginal students.
With Aboriginal high school graduation rates lower than the national average, Deb Draney, District Principal – Aboriginal Education, hopes that the Aboriginal TRU Start Program will help to turn the tide locally.
“We are very proud of our students for their commitment to this program and for their accomplishments. The faculty and the support staff at TRU were exceptional. We plan to build on the success of this program.”
The pilot comes to a close on April 27, with a celebratory luncheon at the Gathering Place (Cplul’kw’ten,) at noon.
More Information
Joanne Brown
Co-ordinator of Services for Aboriginal Students, TRU
250-828-7152
Christine Adam
Dean of Sudents, Faculty of Student Development, TRU
250-371-5860
