GUELPH – The Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) is expanding its alternative education programs.
“Our goal is to ensure every student finds a path that inspires them,” stated superintendent of student achievement Pat Hamilton.
“This expansion allows students to explore real-world skills, connect with community partners, and chart their own successful futures.”
From robotics to health care to digital game design, officials say the UGDSB’s evolving alternative education framework reflects the board’s commitment to innovation, equity and student-centred learning.
At an Oct. 28 board meeting trustees received a report with updates on the evolution of UGDSB’s alternative education model, which continues to grow under the leadership of College Heights Secondary School (CHSS).
The high school has become a central hub for alternative learning, combining academic, technical and experiential opportunities.
Six Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs are now offered: hospitality, horticulture, transportation, manufacturing, health care and construction.
During the 2024–25 school year, bundled SHSM programs were made accessible directly through myBlueprint, making course planning and pathway selection seamless for students.
In 2025–26, senior SHSM programming was launched, further enriching workforce-aligned pathways.
In July 2025, continuing education and supervised alternative learning programs were relocated to CHSS.
A FIRST Robotics Team has also been launched at CHSS, which attracted about 60 students and families at its September open house.
Looking ahead to 2026–27, new multi-credit programs in robotics and health care professionals will open to students. An open house this month will spotlight the new health care professionals program.
Wellington County
Planning is underway to establish UGDSB Alternative Education –North Wellington.
“This site will help provide equitable access for students across the district,” officials state in a press release.
“Staff will continue developing multi-credit program bundles for launch in 2027,” they continue.
Dufferin County
The UGDSB is in the process of securing a new site in Orangeville, with programming beginning in January 2026.
Programming will begin with eLearning, supervised alternative learning and tech options at Orangeville District Secondary School and Westside Secondary School.
Possible expansions include adult English language training and living classroom partnerships.
