+ What is the Propel Program?

Propel is a form of “project based learning.” In short, students come to Propel to further develop a passion or interest while learning new skills along the way. This type of education prizes student autonomy and choice. In Propel, lessons are given to support independent growth. These lessons include instruction in time management, organization, communication, and research (to name a few). Students then take these lessons and apply them to a context of their choosing. The teachers will help them build a project around an area (or areas) of passion/interest, allowing students to take a great deal of control over what and how they learn.

+ What type of student is this program for? What grade level is it for?

Propel is for students entering Grade 11 but exceptions can be made for students entering grade 12. We often say that students who are well-suited for this program are those who:

• “Lose track of time” when they are doing something they love. They can immerse themselves in their work and fully commit themselves to the task at hand.

• “Are ready to stop waiting for instructions.” In Propel, students are encouraged to try new things, experiment, and learn from their failures and mistakes. The most successful students are often those who are ready to be supported by a teacher rather than be directed by one.

• “Are thinking about what comes next.” A key part of the program is career development. We push our students outside of the classroom, connect them with mentors, and have them sign up for workshops and experiences so that the classroom is not confined to the walls of the school. We want the students gathering experiences so that they can make more informed decisions about what comes next.

+ What kind of project can I complete in Propel?

We’ve been around for a while now, but we are still consistently impressed by how many new and innovative projects we see young people come up with. Rather than trying to list the myriad of possibilities, we’ll direct you to our projects page where you can read about the wide breadth of different projects students have dreamed up.

+ Do I need to know what my project will be before I apply?

Absolutely not. In fact, helping students discover their project is one of the best parts about teaching in this program.

+ What credits do Propel students earn?

Grade 11 students will earn:

• English (Transactional Focus),
• Information and Communications Technology (Print Media and Interactive Media),
• Career Development if their project has significant depth,
• Physical Education.

Grade 12 students will earn:

• English (Transactional Focus),
• Career Development,
• Physical Education,
• potential 4th credit in the area of their project work.

+ Will I be able to go to University?

Without question. In Propel, you receive 4 regular 30S level credits (40S if you are a Grade 12 returnee), all of which are recognized by Manitoba post-secondary institutions. In fact, we have had a fair number of our Propel graduates win very sizeable scholarships, from the Schulich Leader of Tomorrow Award to the top tier entrance awards at the University of Guelph.

+ What skills and learning are prioritized in Propel?

Propel places a high degree of emphasis on students taking control of their learning in addition to:

• pragmatic and technical writing,
• career exploration and self discovery,
• time management,
• organization,
• public speaking.

Propel sets its foundation on the “21st Century Skills” as defined by Michael Fullen in his work about “Deep Learning.” These are skills described as necessary for success in our ever-changing world. These skills are often also referred to as the “6 C’s”: Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Character, and Citizenship.

+ How is the teaching different?

In Propel, the teachers consider themselves more like mentors or coaches than lecturers. There are still lessons, of course, but most of the teaching happens in one-to-one conferencing with students. The instruction is highly individualized and tailored to help you grow as much as possible in the time you are with us.

+ What advantage does a Propel student have? How will this help me after high school?

Propel places a high degree of emphasis on The Conference Board of Canada “Employability Skills,” which they define as those required to “enter, stay in, and progress” in today’s world. When we make decisions about the content we put into Propel, we reference this framework.

We spend a great deal of time helping our students with Conference Board’s “Fundamental Skills,” including Communication, Managing Information, and Problem Solving. We also use our time with the students to work the “Personal Management Skills,” including Responsibility, Adaptability, Goal Setting, and Organization. Propel students are also afforded many opportunities to practice the “Teamwork Skills,” including working within various group dynamics, and participating in large scale projects and tasks.

+ Do I need to transfer schools?

Nope! You will travel to Nelson McIntyre daily for one semester, but you are still very much a student of your “home” high school.

+ Can I still participate in some of my home school’s activities if I am a Propel student?

You bet. Our flexible schedule will allow you to take part in your home school activities, including band, theatre, athletics, and spirit week (to name a few).

+ What technology and tools would I have access to?

You will have access to a wide breadth of resources, including (but not limited to):

Powerful desktop computers, the Adobe software suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, After Effects, InDesign, etc.), Cubase 11 (audio production), GarageBand, Canon DSLR cameras, Graphics Tablets, high quality sewing machines, a high quality serger, Scarlett interfaces, Audio Technica condenser microphones, a Shure Beta 58, a Rode NT2 Boom microphone, Gibson monitoring speakers, Audio Technica over ear monitors, etc.

Additionally, you will also have access to various resources around Nelson McIntyre Collegiate, including our industrial arts labs.

+ Can I take other courses while I am in Propel?

You can. In the past, students have concurrently enrolled in courses at their home school via distance education, or have attended courses at Nelson McIntyre by special request. Because Propel is considered a full course load, it is important to note that taking an additional course while in the program limits the time and attention one might give to a project. Please contact us to discuss your plans if you are interested in additional courses while in Propel.

+ What are the start and end times of the school day?

Propel begins at 9AM, which gives students from across LRSD time to arrive punctually. Propel finishes at 3PM, but the work day does not stop here. Students are often found working well into the evening. We still like to call these the “Joe hours.” In our first iteration of the program, Joe stayed well into the evening editing his film. On several occasions, he was asked to leave because it was time to close the school!