Old Scona Academic High School

Last updated
Old Scona Academic
Old Scona Exterior.jpg
Old Scona Academic High School in Edmonton
Address
Old Scona Academic High School
10523 84 Avenue NW

Edmonton
,
Alberta
,
T6E 2H5

Canada
Coordinates 53°31′11″N113°30′07″W / 53.51972°N 113.50194°W / 53.51972; -113.50194
Information
School type Public Secondary School
MottoEver to Excel
Founded1976
School board Edmonton Public Schools
SuperintendentDarrel Robertson
Area trusteeMichael Janz
PrincipalWill Deys
Grades 10–12
Enrollment364 (2020-21)
Language English
Area Old Strathcona
Colour(s)Maroon, Green, and Gold    
Team nameOlympians
Website oldscona.epsb.ca

Old Scona Academic, often referred to as Old Scona or OSA, is a high school in the Old Strathcona district of Edmonton, Alberta. It is a small academic high school with a population of approximately 340 to 360 students. The school's stated purpose is to provide academically inclined students an opportunity to grow in an environment of intellectual stimulation, and is recognized as one of the top academic high schools in Canada. [1] The school's motto is, "Ever to Excel".

Contents

History

The building housing Old Scona Academic was opened in 1908 as Strathcona Collegiate Institute. Originally part of the City of Strathcona school system, Strathcona Collegiate Institute transferred to the Edmonton system when Strathcona amalgamated with Edmonton in 1912. University of Alberta classes were held on the upper floors from 1909 to 1911. In 1912, the name of the school was changed to Strathcona High School. [2] : 121  Strathcona High School closed in 1958, following the opening of Strathcona Composite High School in 1955 and of Bonnie Doon High School in 1958. [2] : 122, 349, 354 

Following the closure of the high school the building was used as Strathcona Junior High School (Until the mid-1960s). It later saw use for continuing education, special education, and as an annex for MacEwan University when that institution was founded in 1971. [2] : 122  In 1976, the Board of Trustees of Edmonton Public Schools opened Old Scona Academic High School, an academic alternative high school in the original Strathcona Collegiate Institute building. Since June 1980, Old Scona Academic has been an International Baccalaureate World School. [3]

COVID-19 pandemic

Old Scona Academic had two periods of distance learning during the worldwide pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 from 2019-2021, with the highest attendance rate in the Edmonton Public Schools Board district (92%) for senior high schools, compared to a districtwide average of 72% attendance rates across all schools. [4]

Reputation and results

In 2005, Maclean's Magazine named OSA as the top academic high school in Canada. [1] In addition to its Maclean's ranking, OSA was ranked by the Fraser Institute in 2010 as the best high school in Alberta. [5] In 2011, it was featured as the top-ranked high school in the Edmonton Sun's High School Report Card. [6]

Admission

The 135 students who enter OSA each year are chosen based on set criteria from an excess of applicants. Prospective students are evaluated using a standardized admission exam (45% of the application), in addition to an average of their Math 9, Social Studies 9, Science 9, and English Language Arts 9 grades (45% of the application), and a character assessment from a Junior High counsellor or principal (10% of the application). [7]

Programs of study

Old Scona Academic offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program in addition to fulfilling the Alberta Education Curriculum. Students begin grade ten enrolled in a pre-IB program. During the spring term of this year, students must elect to either pursue the full I.B. program, a partial I.B. program, or the basic Alberta Education Curriculum. Most OSA students enroll in partial I.B., with approximately ten to twenty students a year opting for the full I.B. program.

The Old Scona Academic Higher Level (HL) I.B. course offerings as of 2021 are English A Language and Literature, European History (Route 2: Peacekeeping), Biology, and Physics. Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science, French B, and Group 6 arts are offered only at the Standard Level (SL). Most courses are also offered as regular Alberta 20 and 30 level classes, for those students only taking the basic Alberta Education Curriculum or partial I.B. program.

Students who elect to undertake the full two-year I.B. program to receive an I.B. Diploma, must complete all six groups of courses, as per the International Baccalaureate (I.B.) Diploma Program. [8] [9] This includes:

At least three of these groups must be completed at Higher Level (HL). In addition to these classes, I.B. program students must take the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, complete an extended essay, and must document a number of extra-curricular and community involvement hours known as CAS (Creativity, Action, Service) hours. Unlike other Canadian provinces, Alberta does not allow completion of the I.B. Diploma program to be used in lieu of the provincial diploma. As a result, on top of their I.B. course load, full I.B. program students must fulfill the requirements of the Alberta Education Curriculum that do not get covered by the I.B. program, such as the Career and Life Management (CALM) course, physical education, and ten credit 30-level course requirements. [10] Additionally, many post-secondary institutions (particularly those in Alberta) will not solely use the I.B. program for acceptance (though it does provide benefits). Many, for example, require completion of Chemistry, Biology, and Physics at the 30-level. As the I.B. program only requires one of these courses for Group 4, students must take the remaining two outside of the I.B. program. These combined requirements often lead to lengthy course loads and extended class hours / homework.

As a result of these demands, most students at Old Scona Academic choose to pursue a partial I.B. program. While this does not grant the student any I.B. Diploma status, there are benefits to completing many 30-level classes in I.B. Higher Level (HL). Many post-secondary institutions will view completion of these higher level classes (with good marks), as equivalent to completing comparative introductory classes in the post-secondary level. Therefore, students can use partial I.B. to get credit for many introductory post-secondary classes like Biology and English, saving both time and tuition later on. [9]

Because OSA is a small school, it has a limited selection of elective classes. These include choral music, instrumental music, jazz band, performing arts, drama, speech and debate, leadership, art, theory of knowledge (which can be taken without the full IB diploma), computer applications, computer programming, and cyber security. These options vary every year, depending on student body interest and staffing logistics. Physical education at the 20 and 30 levels is not required by the Alberta Education Curriculum, but is offered as an elective for students. In the past, many students have also taken second languages such as German and Japanese through external programs affiliated with Alberta Education.

Building

Designed by local architect Roland Lines, the cornerstone of the building was laid by the first premier (and education minister) of Alberta, Alexander Rutherford in 1907, the same year Strathcona became a city. The school was officially opened by Lieutenant-Governor George Bulyea on 17 February 1909. It was one of the largest and most up-to-date school buildings in the province at the time, featuring an advanced automatic climate control system. The style is described as Edwardian Classical Free, which retains some decorative features of the Victorian era but is more subdued, practical, and utilitarian, and less traditional.

The building has received a number of renovations since its opening. The most recent major renovation and restoration took place in 1997. Since then, smaller restoration projects like new flooring have taken place. Modernization of the school to include computer labs, a Wi-Fi network and LCD projectors in classrooms have been careful to maintain the historical integrity of the building. Some elements, such as the external fire escapes, remain part of the building for historical integrity, but are no longer in use due to structural age. Many of the building's mechanical systems, although today out-of-date and replaced for efficiency and safety reasons, were highly advanced when the building was constructed. Many elements have been left by renovations for decorative effect, are on display in the school, or have been stored in the Provincial Archives of Alberta.

In September 2008, in recognition of the academic history of the various institutions that have used the building over the years and the architectural significance of the building, the school was designated a provincial historic resource. This designation limits the modifications and additions that can be performed on the building. [11]

Notable alumni

School website: https://oldscona.epsb.ca/

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Strathcona High School</span> 10-12 school in Edmonton, Alberta (est. 1908)

Strathcona High School, colloquially referred to as Scona and SCHS, is a public high school located in Edmonton, Alberta. The school was referred to as Strathcona Composite High School until 2014. A $6.1 million modernization project was completed in 2015 and the school now enrolls approximately 1700 students.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Harry Ainlay High School</span> High school in Edmonton, Alberta (est. 1966)

Harry Ainlay High School is a high school located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in the Royal Gardens neighbourhood, south of Whitemud Drive on 111 Street. The school is operated by the Edmonton Public School System and has a wide variety of educational opportunities for students, including full French Immersion instruction, the International Baccalaureate Program, Career and Technology Studies, and Registered Apprenticeship programs. The school has an enrollment of 2,722 students

The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) is an educational programme for students between the ages of 11 and 16 around the world as part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum. Middle Years Programme is intended to prepare students for the two-year IB Diploma Programme.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is a two-year educational programme primarily aimed at 16-to-19-year-olds in 140 countries around the world. The programme provides an internationally accepted qualification for entry into higher education and is recognized by many universities worldwide. It was developed in the early-to-mid-1960s in Geneva, Switzerland, by a group of international educators. After a six-year pilot programme that ended in 1975, a bilingual diploma was established.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Edmonton Public Schools</span> Public school division in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Edmonton Public Schools is the largest public school division in Edmonton, the second largest in Alberta, and the sixth largest in Canada. The division offers a variety of alternative and special needs programs, and many are offered in multiple locations to improve accessibility for students. As a public school division, Edmonton Public Schools accepts all students who meet the age and residency requirements set out in provincial legislation.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Toronto French School</span> Day school in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Toronto French School (TFS), founded in 1962, is an independent, bilingual, co-educational, non-denominational school in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Charles III, as King of Canada, is the royal patron of the school. The school rebranded in 2011 to become TFS – Canada's International School.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Millbrook High School (North Carolina)</span> Public school in North Carolina, United States

Millbrook Magnet High School, commonly known as Millbrook High School (MHS), is a public magnet high school located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is one of thirty-two high schools in the Wake County Public School System. In 2006, Millbrook finished the renovation of its campus which includes a new three-level building, a courtyard for students, and a larger cafeteria making MHS one of the largest and up to date facilities in the area. In 2009, Millbrook High School was granted International Baccalaureate status by the North Carolina Board of Education. The school was named a Magnet School of Excellence by Magnet Schools of America in 2020 and 2024 for its innovative curriculum, strong community building, and success in removing barriers to student success.

Biotechnology High School (BTHS), or commonly referred to as Biotech, is a four-year comprehensive vocational public high school serving students in ninth through twelfth grades in Freehold Township, Monmouth County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey, as part of the Monmouth County Vocational School District (MCVSD). Its curriculum includes a science program, consisting of eight different science classes spread over four years, designed to prepare students to pursue further education in biotechnology and the natural sciences. Emphasis is placed on research, laboratory skills, critical thinking, problem solving, technology, and teamwork. Over 90% of the 2009 graduates selected college majors in the life sciences. The school has been accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools since 2005.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">MacEwan University</span> University in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

MacEwan University, also known as Grant MacEwan University, is a public university located in Downtown Edmonton, Alberta. Originally established as a community college which was named in honor of Dr. Grant MacEwan, 9th Lieutenant Governor (Canada) of Alberta in 1971, Grant MacEwan College officially transitioned into a university in 2009 under the Post-Secondary Learning Act. While the university's name was rebranded as MacEwan University for public communication and marketing purposes in 2013, its official name remains Grant MacEwan University. MacEwan university offers a wide range of programs and is home to six faculties and schools, providing nearly 60 programs including baccalaureate degrees, certificates, diplomas, post-diplomas and university transfer programs.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kaohsiung American School</span> Private international school

The Kaohsiung American School is a private, Pre-K through grade 12 college preparatory school located in Zuoying District, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The school was established in 1989 and it is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The current superintendent is James Laney, Jr. The school has been accredited to teach the IB Diploma Programme since August 2010 and the Middle Years Program (MYP) since September 2015.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Victoria School of the Arts</span> School in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Victoria School of the Arts is a public school in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada operated by Edmonton Public Schools, offering students from kindergarten through grade 12 an International Baccalaureate aligned, arts-focused education, and is recognized as one of the top arts-focused schools in North America.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ross Sheppard High School</span> High school in Edmonton, Canada

Ross Sheppard High School or École Ross Sheppard is a high school located in a northwest neighbourhood of Coronation Park, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The school colours are Colombia blue and navy blue, and it is represented by a Thunderbird, also known as a T-Bird. Outside the school is a totem pole with a T-Bird on top, which has been given by British Columbia's Indigenous elders, representing the school mascot. The school serves the needs of over 2,000 students attending grades 10-12, including approximately 35 international students annually. Ross Sheppard School's philosophy is based on four pillars - Academics, Arts, Athletics and Service.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Escola Maria Imaculada (Chapel School)</span> American school in Brazil

Escola Maria Imaculada, founded in 1947, also known as Chapel School, is an accredited American private day school located in a residential suburb of São Paulo, Brazil, the largest city in South America, with a metropolitan population of approximately 19 million. It possesses the IB Diploma Programme. Chapel's pre-school, elementary and high school are housed on a single campus with an enrollment of 650 students.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Weston Collegiate Institute</span> High school in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Weston Collegiate Institute is a Grade 9 to 12 public high school in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was formerly known by its previous names of Weston Grammar School, Weston High School, Weston High and Vocational School and Weston Collegiate and Vocational School. It is located in the York South-Weston area. It is the second oldest high school in Toronto, after Jarvis Collegiate Institute. Weston CI is located on 100 Pine Street and has a student population of about 1043.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Jasper Place High School</span> High school in Edmonton, Alberta (est. 1961)

Jasper Place High School is located in west end Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and is part of the Edmonton Public School System. It opened in 1961, originally part of the Town of Jasper Place school system, becoming a part of the Edmonton system when Jasper Place amalgamated with Edmonton in 1964.

Private education in Dubai is regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. The UAE Ministry of Education is responsible for public schools in Dubai. Currently, more than 90% of school education in Dubai takes place in the private sector, served by 194 private schools offering 17 different curricula to more than 280,000 students from 182 nationalities. Dubai has 26 international branch campuses of universities from 12 different countries - including the UK, Australia and India. More than 30,000 students attend these universities, with the majority studying business, engineering and media & design. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) was founded in 2006 to develop education and human resource sectors in Dubai, and license educational institutes.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Archbishop MacDonald High School</span> 10-12 school in Edmonton, Alberta (est. 1967)

Archbishop MacDonald High School is an academic high school in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Louis St. Laurent Catholic School is a fine arts oriented Junior and Senior High School in the Edmonton Catholic School District, located in south western Edmonton. It is also known as "Louis" or "LSL" by students and staff. The school averages a student body of approximately 1,000 or more pupils each year, spanning grades 7 through 12. From 2009 to 2022, the entire school participated in the International Baccalaureate program. As of 2016, a few students participate in the Spanish bilingual program. As of 2021, the school incorporates the Advanced Placement curriculum. In 2022, Spark Academy was introduced.

Tempo School is a K-12 private school in the Riverbend neighbourhood of Edmonton, Alberta. It was founded upon the idea that the education of children is the responsibility of parents. The name of the school TEMPO is an acronym of its Latin motto: Tota Edocenda Maxime Parentum Officium.

A high school diploma is a diploma awarded upon graduation of high school. A high school diploma is awarded after completion of courses of studies lasting four years, from grade 9 to grade 12. It is the school leaving qualification in the United States and Canada.

References

  1. 1 2 3 Brian Bergman With Karin Marley (2005-08-22). "Canada's best high schools | Macleans.ca - Education - Universities". Macleans.ca. Archived from the original on 2012-04-03. Retrieved 2010-11-14.
  2. 1 2 3 Kostek, Michael (1992). A Century and Ten: The History of Edmonton Public Schools. Edmonton Public Schools. Retrieved 2 July 2017.
  3. ↑ "International Baccalaureate". Ibo.org. Retrieved 2010-11-14.
  4. ↑ "Coronavirus: 28% of Edmonton students enrolled in online school - Edmonton | Globalnews.ca".
  5. ↑ "The Fraser Institute Alberta High School Report Card". FraserInstitute.ca. Retrieved 2010-11-14.
  6. ↑ "Edmonton Sun High School Report Card". EdmontonSun.com. Archived from the original on 1 March 2014. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
  7. ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20240120140449/https://oldscona.epsb.ca/application/
  8. ↑ "IB Diploma Programme curriculum". Ibo.org. Archived from the original on 2013-12-03. Retrieved 2010-11-14.
  9. 1 2 "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 2011-02-06. Retrieved 2010-11-12.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  10. ↑ "Alberta Education - Guide to Education 2010–2011". Education.alberta.ca. 2010-09-01. Retrieved 2010-11-14.
  11. ↑ "Alberta Register of Historic Places".
  12. ↑ Clarence Campbell
  13. ↑ "Chrystia Freeland on Twitter". Twitter. Retrieved 2018-09-01.
  14. ↑ Moray, Lindsay (October 22, 2019). "Genuis granted second term". Sherwood Park News. Retrieved November 3, 2020.
  15. ↑ "Good harvest for a lifetime of work". Archived from the original on 2014-01-21. Retrieved 2013-10-31.
  16. ↑ "Little orange dot:' Lone Alberta NDP MP says she offers different perspective". May 31, 2020.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.