On June 8th, 98 graduates from 21 local high schools who completed the requirements of the OCDSB International Certificate Program (ICP) crossed the stage in the auditorium at 440 Albert Street. The proud Grade 12 students were enthusiastically applauded by friends and family in the audience.
 |
|
Graduates are all smiles as they receive their OCDSB International Certificates at a special ceremony held at the Albert Street Education Centre, the building which is home to OCENET’s offices.
|
|
 |
|
Mr. Oussoren’s entertaining ICP “rap” for the graduates was enjoyed by all attendees
|
OCENET International Education Coordinator and administrator of the ICP, Sean Oussoren, served as the MC for the ceremony. The evening included presentations from several ICP students who provided reflections on their participation in the ICP and the innovative projects they completed throughout the program.
Following the presentation of the International Certificate diplomas, Mr. Geoff Best, OCENET Executive Director, provided closing remarks about the importance of intercultural awareness and congratulated the ICP graduates on their leadership.
Currently there is a total of 716 students enrolled in the ICP from Grades 9-12 in 24 OCDSB schools, and supported by 34 teacher advisors who are key to the success of the innovative ICP program. Since the first ICP graduation ceremony in 2013, 590 OCDSB students have received the International Certificate. Several colleges and universities recognize the OCDSB International Certificate and offer scholarships.
“It's the way that we can reward curiosity and initiative that I think is particularly special about the ICP, and the students that step out of their comfort zone are the ones who get the most out of this program. I'm just lucky that I get to witness it.”
- Brandon Crilly, International Certificate Program Teacher Advisor, Earl of March S.S.
Variations of the OCDSB ICP model are now found in schools across Canada.