West Ferris Secondary School is thrilled to announce the retooling and redesign of its science and technology program, STEAM. STEAM is a cross-curricular and cross-panel program consisting of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics education with a focus on project-based learning using a variety of computer-based technologies.
The program has taken on several different names since its inception as the ST-21 program in 1992. In 2005, ST-21 was transformed into the ST Wireless program with the inclusion of student laptops as the main learning tool. In 2009, further enhancements included the movement towards Apple MacBooks and iPods.
STEAM students are co-learners with their peers and teachers using cutting-edge computer technologies. Learning in the STEAM environment will be transformative and will produce students who are critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders upon graduation. STEAM is an enriched academic program.
- 30 years of history. The program started out as ST-21 in 1992.
- Became the first 1:1 laptop learning program in North Bay in 2005 called ST Wireless.
- Recognized as an Apple Distinguished Program in 2015, the program rebranded to STEAM.
- Coordinator of the Program recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator, July 2015.
- West Ferris was Recognized as an Apple Distinguished School in 2017. West Ferris is 1 of 20 Apple Distinguished Schools in Canada.
- Lead Teacher recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator, July 2017.
- STEAM invited to attend and present at the Apple Distinguished Schools Summit held in Chicago on May 8th, 2018.
- Hosted Apple Distinguished Schools site visit, June 2018
- Recognized as an Apple Distinguished school for 2020 to 2024.
Enriched, Academic Programming
In this stream, students utilize MacBook technology in all of their core courses. This level of programming is geared towards the academic level student who is interested in becoming the best possible learner with a dedication to their studies throughout high school. This programming will allow students to work both collaboratively and in groups with the end goal of problem-solving in project-based scenarios. This is the existing STEAM programming and pedagogy that has been successful for the last 28 years.
2022-2023 Laptop Learning Program Application Process
The application process for the 2022-2023 school year will open on December 1st. Admission into the STEAM program is based on three parts. Students that wish to apply to the STEAM program should select STEAM courses in Career Cruising.
✓ Part 1 – Online STEAM Questionnaire.
✓ Part 2 – Create a short 1 to 2-minute video profiling you as a person and a learner.
✓ Part 3 – Provide a copy of your February report card illustrating an overall average of
70% or higher.
More details can be found by clicking on the “Apply to STEAM” button below.
Do you have any questions about the program or the application process?
Contact Mr. Yacoback at: Brent.Yacoback@nearnorthschools.ca
Read All About Our Journey Below
. 
