Next Step alumni Avery Thomas was presented the Fort Saskatchewan Rotary Club Scholarship on October 29.

Sherwood Park, AB. — Next Step alumni Avery Thomas has received four scholarships valued at $7,500 after enrolling in the Health Care Aide program at Norquest College. “I’m able to attend school without taking on any student loans,” says Thomas.

Thomas has received the:

• Fort Saskatchewan Rotary Club Scholarship;
• Kevin Gaetz Scholarship;
• Konica Minolta Scholarship; and
• Twice But Nice Scholarship.

Thomas graduated Next Step in June 2024. During his last year at the school, he enrolled in the dual-credit course for Health Care Aide—run through Norquest College. Dual credit is provided in collaboration with Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) Career Pathways. “The staff at Next Step gave me the support, guidance and opportunities I needed to find my path,” says Thomas. “They supported my completion of high school and connected me with the Healthcare Aide dual-credit program.”

Thomas’ journey showcases one of the Division’s dual-credit options, the individualized learning Next Step provides and the hard work of an EIPS student in achieving their post-secondary goals.

“Avery was able to take advantage of all Next Step has to offer,” says Krista Porter, an assistant principal at the school. “He was able to complete his high school diploma in a flexible environment with a focus on individual learning. We knew Avery well, which allowed us to be able to strongly support his career exploration and scholarship applications. The Next Step team is so proud of his achievements!”

Next Step provides alternative education programming at three community-based sites, including Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park and Vegreville. The school is open to grades 8-12 students and returning Grade 12 students—up to and including the age of 19.

Next Step students embody the values of acceptance, flexibility, individualization, respect and responsibility. The school sees the potential in each student and works together with them to open up a world of future possibilities.

“Next Step gave me the option to focus on individual courses and the flexibility to look after my family while attending school,” adds Thomas.

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

RELATED INFORMATION
EIPS Career Pathways: Dual Credit
Norquest College: Health Care Aide program

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902