This year, I’ve stepped into a new district-level role in our district in the north of New Brunswick, focused on reimagining what alternative education can look like in rural communities, given our geographical challenges. My goal is to design flexible, student-centred pathways that meet learners where they are: academically, socially, and emotionally, while maintaining strong connections to community, culture, and belonging.
Rural schools face unique challenges: smaller populations, fewer specialized resources, and wide variations in student needs. Yet these same settings offer incredible opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and creativity. My work involves visiting schools, connecting with educators, and learning from existing practices to understand how we can build a framework that balances consistency across the district with the freedom to innovate locally.
We’re exploring how relationships, technology, and design thinking can expand access to meaningful learning experiences. Whether it’s challenge/project-based work, experiential programs, or community-linked learning, the focus is on helping students rediscover success and purpose.
At its heart, this work is about belonging and possibility, ensuring that every student has a pathway that reflects their strengths and aspirations.
I’d love to connect with others doing similar work. What are some great examples of rural alternative education programs, and what makes them thrive? How are you balancing innovation with sustainability and local identity?
Attach up to 5 files which will be available for other members to download.