Lakehead University and KCDSB Launch Achievement Program for Grade 4 Students
Ten excited Grade 4 students from St. John Paul II School took their first steps toward university this week, as Lakehead University (LU) and the Kenora Catholic District School Board officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding to bring the Achievement Program to KCDSB.
The virtual celebration created a shared moment between Thunder Bay and Kenora. Students waved at the screen as Lakehead University’s mascot, Wolfie, popped in to say hello, adding fun and excitement to the virtual celebration. Families, educators, Elders, and representatives from both communities gathered to welcome the very first group of Kenora Catholic students joining the program.
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A Pathway That Begins in Grade 4
The Achievement Program is Lakehead University’s early-access initiative designed to open doors to postsecondary education for students. Beginning in Grade 4, participants take part in yearly activities focused on recreation, academics, community involvement, and personal development.
Over time, students build confidence, explore new interests, stay connected with Lakehead University, and, by graduating high school, earn financial support that can be applied toward their first year of tuition or other education-related expenses.
For many families, this support represents opportunity, access, and hope.
“We are incredibly proud,” shared parent Chloe Fadden. “Living in a small town an hour away means our kids spend a lot of time commuting. Opportunities like this remind us why we make the trip. We are so grateful.”
Bringing Two Communities Together
The event began with a land acknowledgement delivered by the Grade 4 students, followed by opening prayers shared in Ojibway and English. Elder Beatrice Twance-Hynes from Thunder Bay offered a blessing that grounded the celebration in culture, respect, and community connection.
Students then introduced themselves and shared what they dream of doing after high school. Their aspirations ranged from working at Ontario Power Generation just like dad, to becoming coders, counsellors, and a social worker who hopes to support children in care. Families and educators listened with pride as the students spoke about the futures they imagine for themselves.
Achievement Program alum Nevaeh Rae joined the celebration from LU and offered heartfelt encouragement, reminding students that they belong in every learning space and that their dreams matter.
Lakehead University President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddall welcomed the partnership, noting Lakehead's long-standing commitment to expanding access to education. “The Achievement Program reflects Lakehead University’s deep commitment to access and opportunity for young people across Northwestern Ontario,” she said. “We are thrilled to welcome the Kenora Catholic District School Board as a new partner and to support these students as they begin their journey toward future postsecondary success.”
Celebrating the Role of Families
KCDSB Director of Education Jamey Robertson also spoke about how meaningful this collaboration is for students and families. He shared his gratitude for the parents and caregivers who support their children every day, noting that programs like this work best when home and school walk alongside one another. He thanked families for believing in their children, for making the commitment to participate, and for playing such an important role in helping their students build confidence, curiosity, and hope for the future.
A Proud Moment for St. John Paul II School
For Principal Tammy Bush, the celebration was all about the students and the bright futures ahead of them.
Speaking directly to the Grade 4's, she shared how proud she was of each student and encouraged them to keep dreaming big. “Today represents a future filled with new opportunities,” she told them. “This program gives you a clear path toward postsecondary education and invites you to explore all the possibilities ahead.”
Grade 4 student Jade Fadden captured the excitement of the day:
“I am excited to be part of the program. I want to go to university, and one day I hope to be a baker. Being chosen makes me feel excited for the future.”
Expanding Opportunities Across Northwestern Ontario
Kenora Catholic is the sixth school board to join the Achievement Program, which now supports about 500 students across six boards and 45 schools. Seventy percent of participants self-identify as Indigenous.
The program is built on regional partnerships, a commitment to student success, and the generosity of donors who believe every young person deserves the chance to pursue postsecondary education.
“Since its inception, the Achievement Program has built strong connections between Lakehead University and families across our region,” said Amanda Stefanile, Manager of the Achievement Program. “We are excited to welcome students from Kenora Catholic into this growing community.”
A Memorable Ending
Before the event wrapped up, the Grade 4 students were invited to the front to sign a student-friendly version of the MOU with Jamey Robertson, Director of Education. It was a proud moment, marking the official beginning of their journey in the Achievement Program.
After the signing, Elder Jeanette Skead from Wauzhushk Onigum Nation offered a closing prayer that brought a sense of reflection and gratitude for this opportunity.
To celebrate, each student received their own mini Wolfie mascot and a brand-new Lakehead University backpack. The surprize gifts brought big smiles and excitement and was a nice finishing touch to the celebration.
Looking Ahead
As the first cohort of KCDSB students begins this nine-year journey, excitement is already growing. With their new Lakehead backpacks, their mini Wolfie mascots, and a community of support behind them, these students are stepping forward with confidence toward the futures they imagine.
To learn more about the Achievement Program, visit:
https://www.lakeheadu.ca/about/presidents-office/achievement-program