This fall, Parkland College is offering a new course in Balcarres that will introduce participants to careers and further education related to mental health services.

In the 12-week Introduction to Mental Health & Wellness program, learners will develop the skills and knowledge required for introductory employment or further education. The course is a good starting point for work in substance abuse centres, mental health agencies, correctional facilities, group homes, transition homes, and more.

The program will cover a variety of topics, including Indigenous models of health and healing, case management and assessment, grief and loss, addictions and recovery models, and abuse and trauma. Participants will gain certifications in Suicide Intervention, Mental Health First Aid, Conflict Resolution, First Aid/CPR A/AED, and WHMIS.

The course will be delivered at Wakayos Employment & Training Centre in Balcarres. Classes are Monday to Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., beginning Oct. 12 and running through Jan. 21, 2022. The program also includes a two-week work placement.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:
Amanda Reeve
306.641.9171
[email protected]

Parkland College is running another session of the Youth Employment & Skills Strategy (YESS) program this fall. Introduced last year, the initiative is designed to help youth between 15 and 30 years of age train for their future and secure employment.

Participants receive advanced Essential Skills training, life skills/soft skills, and employment readiness. Students are mentored throughout the program and given on-the-job training opportunities. They also acquire industry certifications including First Aid/CPR, Food Safety, Serve It Right, STEC Customer Service, Mental Health First Aid, and more.

The Fall 2021 program runs from Sept. 13 to Dec. 3. Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Parkland College Main Campus in Yorkton.

Students must pre-register. Intake is underway.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:
Amanda Reeve
306.786.7341
[email protected]

On Sunday, July 11, the Government of Saskatchewan lifted all COVID-19 public health restrictions across the province. However, Parkland College is taking a conservative approach in its return-to-campus plan in order to best serve the college community.

Masks must still be worn indoors at all Parkland College campus and training locations. Summer programs and courses will trial alternatives as the College gradually works toward the removal of this requirement.

Physical distancing is no longer required at the College, but efforts will be made to create comfortable spacing and avoid overcrowding.

Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting will continue in high traffic areas, and common spaces (such as student lounges, study areas, lunch rooms, etc.) will gradually re-open.

Hand sanitizer will remain readily available at all locations. Staff and students are asked to follow proper hand hygiene and coughing/sneezing etiquette, and to stay home if they are not feeling well.

And the College encourages all students, staff, and visitors to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Parkland College, like other organizations, relies on a successful vaccine rollout to return to full campus activity in the fall. We are getting closer to this goal, and you can help us get there by getting fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

As the summer progresses, Parkland College’s Safety Department will monitor campuses, collaborate with partner institutions, and follow case numbers in our region. The College will announce further changes and updates, if required, before the start of the 2021-22 academic year.

Click here to see Parkland College’s COVID-19 information and updates.

Saskatchewan’s post-secondary institutions are united in doing our part to fight the spread of COVID-19 and to help keep our communities safe. Now, every one of us can do one more, simple thing: get vaccinated.

All approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe, proven, and effective ways to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

Parkland College, like other organizations, relies on a successful vaccine rollout to return to full campus activity in the fall. We are getting closer to this goal, and you can help us get there by getting fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

This is why we have launched Protect The Parkland – a campaign encouraging students, staff, and our communities to get their COVID-19 vaccine. From now until the end of August, you can win some great Parkland College prizes just by sharing your vaccine story with us. Tag us in your posts on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter (@CollegeofChoice) and use #ProtectTheParkland to be entered to win.

Vaccines are not mandatory for students, staff, or anyone visiting our campuses. But we encourage you to do your part and help Protect The Parkland.

I would like to acknowledge the sorrowful circumstances related to the finding of 215 unmarked graves of Indigenous children on the Kamloops Residential School property, and Thursday’s announcement of 751 unmarked graves discovered on Cowessess First Nation.

Parkland College and Cumberland College rise and stand together in sorrow with our Indigenous communities. Bobbi Gray, our Coalition Chief Foundational Skills and Learner Services, which includes the responsibility for Indigenous Engagement, has crafted a message that I would like to share with you.

Tansi,

Today, the world came to a halt and wrapped themselves around the community of Cowessess First Nation as Chief Cadmus Delorme released the findings of the Marieval Indian Residential School scope. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the community of Cowessess and all who are impacted by the shocking and horrific findings of 751 unmarked graves.

As similar discoveries are uncovered at residential school sites, it is with a heavy heart as the Coalition Chief Officer responsible for Indigenous Engagement and Inclusion that I send out messages of support to those who are affected by the impacts of this dark time in our history. On behalf of our President, Executives, Managers and Indigenous Engagement committees, we encourage staff to reach out for support via our EFAP program, as needed. Additional resources can be found on our websites and are included below for quick reference.

– Support is available for anyone affected by their experience at residential schools, and those who are triggered by the latest reports.
– A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for survivors and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.

Ekosi.

In the spirit of truth and reconciliation,

Bobbi Gray, B.Ed., M.Ed.

Thank you, Bobbi, for sharing this message us.

I would also like to share a sober and gracious quote from the Cowessess First Nation’s Chief Cadmus Delorme:

“We all inherited this. Nobody today created Residential Schools. Nobody today created the Indian Act. Nobody today created the ’60s Scoop. We all inherited it and we have to acknowledge that people are healing and people are hurting. Let’s do something about it.”

Today we stand with our Indigenous partners and re-commit ourselves to working together for the betterment of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, staff, and communities.

With sorrow and hope,

J. Mark A. Hoddenbagh, Ph.D., PSGov
President & CEO
Cumberland College & Parkland College

Parkland College celebrated the graduates of 2021 in a video ceremony, released Wednesday on the College’s YouTube channel.

Although COVID-19 public health restrictions prevented the College from hosting its traditional graduation for the second year in a row, the Graduation Committee replicated the ceremony as much as possible in a virtual format.

Thank you to all the instructors, staff, and students for making the 2020-21 a memorable year. Congratulations on your success, grads, and best wishes for the future.

Parkland College is offering a pair of incentives for onshore international students who want to take a post-secondary program this fall.

Onshore international students who register for a certificate or diploma program at Parkland College in the 2021-2022 year will be eligible for a $1,000 tuition rebate. Students will receive the rebate after they pay all applicable fees and begin classes in the fall term.

The College is also offering a referral incentive. If you refer a friend or family member who is an onshore international student to Parkland College and they begin a post-secondary program in the fall, you’ll be eligible for a $250 VISA gift card. Click here to access the online referral form.

For more details about admissions for international students, including programs, fees, and application requirements, please visit international.parklandcollege.sk.ca.

International Student Tuition Rebate
When your family member or friend applies to a post-secondary certificate or diploma program at Parkland College as an onshore international student, they will receive a $1,000 tuition rebate

Instructions:
1) Apply online to a post-secondary or post-graduate certificate or diploma program at Parkland College. Your application will be automatically considered for the tuition rebate if you apply after May 15, 2021.
2) Follow the steps to gain Acceptance to your program of choice.
3) Pay the full tuition and begin classes.
4) You will receive a $1,000 tuition rebate from Parkland College.

Eligibility Criteria:
This rebate applies only to onshore international students who apply to Parkland College after May 15, 2021. You must have a Canadian address and be residing in Canada as of May 15, 2021. You must apply to one of our post-secondary or post-graduate certificate or diploma programs (University and Corporate Training programs do not qualify for this promotion). If you applied to Parkland College before May 15, 2021 but a friend or family member has submitted a referral form with your name, you are still eligible for the $1,000 tuition rebate. Tuition rebates will be distributed after classes begin in the fall. You must pay your full tuition and your student account must be in good standing in order to be eligible to receive the $1,000 tuition rebate.

International Student Referral Incentive
You will receive a $250 gift card when you refer a friend or family member who is an onshore international student to Parkland College and they begin a post-secondary program with us in Fall 2021.

Instructions:
1) Complete the Online Referral Form with the name of a family member or friend who is currently in Canada and interested in attending a post-secondary program at Parkland College as an international student.
2) Your friend or family member will need to submit an application to Parkland College as an international student to one of our post-secondary certificate or diploma programs. (University programs are not eligible.)
3) Once classes begin in the fall, we will contact you to find out where to send your $250 gift card.

Eligibility Criteria:
In order to make a referral, you must have a Canadian address. Parkland College staff members are not eligible for this program. Your referral must be an international student residing in Canada as of May 15, 2021. There is no limit to the number of referrals you can submit. Each referral will require a separate Google form submission. You will only receive a $250 gift card if your referral pays their full tuition and begins classes with us in the fall. If your family member or friend has already submitted an application to Parkland College for a program starting in Fall 2021, you can still submit a referral form and be eligible for this program. If multiple referrals are submitted for the same student, the referred student will be contacted to confirm who will receive the $250 gift card. Only one $250 gift card will be awarded per referred student.

Great Plains, Cumberland, and Parkland Colleges have established an International Recruitment and Admissions partnership heading into the 2021-22 academic year. A two-year pilot project in which one individual will recruit for all three organizations solely on the international file will begin in October 2021.

“We are very excited to see this partnership and pilot project come to fruition,” exclaimed Great Plains College president and CEO David Keast. “The partnership will allow us to build off of our foundational knowledge and collective expertise and will help mitigate the risks of international recruitment, in terms of mobility and costs, going forward.”

The two-year pilot will enable the colleges to become more independent in terms of reliance on external agencies for student recruitment and efficiencies including, but not limited to, cost savings.

“This is a cost-effective approach to international recruitment and admissions for the college system,” said Cumberland and Parkland College’s president and CEO Mark Hoddenbagh. “It has the potential to build a foundation for further college partnerships after the pilot period and truly benefit our local economies.”

Great Plains and Cumberland Colleges have been accepting international students since 2015 and Parkland has been doing so since 2014. Learn more about the programs accepting international students at Parkland College, Cumberland College, and Great Plains College.

Parkland College will celebrate the graduates of 2020-2021 in a virtual ceremony next month.

The Graduation Committee has announced that the College will produce a pre-recorded video celebration, which will premiere on the Parkland College YouTube channel on Wednesday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m. The virtual ceremony will include traditional greetings and messages, as well as a performance by a drumming group, before displaying photos of the graduates and announcing their names.

Students who are or will be graduating have been asked to submit a photo to be included in a slideshow as this year’s graduates are announced. Packages containing certificates/diplomas, along with an alumni pin, grad program, and souvenir cap and tassel, will be mailed to the graduates as programs end.

Students are asked to confirm their mailing address and submit any forms, information, and photos by May 25.

For more detailed information, please visit our Graduation webpage.

Office Administration students are done for the year, capping a successful Parkland College-Cumberland College Coalition pilot project.

The one-year Office Administration certificate was the first program delivered jointly by two regional colleges in Saskatchewan. Administration costs were shared between Parkland and Cumberland, and classes were conducted entirely online through Brightspace and WebEx platforms.

The decision to deliver the program jointly and online was made in part due to COVID-19 restrictions and the colleges’ Blended Learning approach.

“I didn’t really understand what it meant, but it’s actually a very cool thing,” one student said about the unique program experience. “I’m glad I got to be a part of it.”

In a learner survey, 100% of students felt they were treated equally as their classmates from the other college, and 92% said they would recommend this program to others.

“I thought it was pretty neat,” another student said. “It’s nice to get the opportunity to work with people from all over the province, especially during lockdown.”

Jenna Niebergall, Chair of Post-Secondary Education at Parkland College, attributes the program’s success mainly to the adaptable and patient instructors who were up for the challenge of teaching a fully online course under difficult circumstances.

On the heels of this year’s success, Office Administration will again be offered jointly by the two colleges online in the 2021-2022 academic year.

Parkland College and Cumberland College are developing plans for a safe return to face-to-face learning for Fall 2021 programs.

As more people in the province get the COVID-19 vaccine, the Ministry of Health and the Chief Medical Health Officer are supporting the Saskatchewan post-secondary sector’s plans for a return to more in-person instruction. However, institutions are prepared to adjust plans and timelines at any point as the pandemic evolves.

The Parkland-Cumberland Coalition delivered classes in the 2020-2021 year through Blended Learning, a mix of online, face-to-face, and alternative programming. In-person learning, including hands-on labs and shop time, was conducted with health and safety precautions in place.

“We learned a lot this year, and we admire our students and staff for being resilient and achieving their goals in these challenging times,” said President & CEO Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh. “While our plan is to get back to on-campus instruction, Blended Learning will continue to be a key part of our institutions, providing flexibility and fostering innovation as we serve learners across our region.”

The health and safety of students and staff remains the top priority as fall plans are developed. The colleges will continue to follow public health orders, working with the Ministry of Advanced Education and the Ministry of Health to ensure that necessary protections are in place to keep people safe.

Students are encouraged to monitor the colleges’ websites for additional details about their specific program and classes. Details will be communicated to students as 2021-2022 programming decisions are finalized.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner-centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

For more information, contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Email: [email protected]

Brenda Mellon
Manager, Marketing and Continuing Studies
Cumberland College
Email: [email protected]

Training can help employers navigate the new normal. In these challenging economic times, the Government of Saskatchewan has extended the application deadline for the Re-Open Saskatchewan Training Subsidy, which can provide 100 per cent reimbursement of training costs to help deal with the impacts of COVID-19.

As a Saskatchewan post-secondary institution, Parkland College is an eligible training provider for the subsidy.

The application deadline has been extended to June 30, 2021. Training must be a minimum of eight hours in length per trainee and completed within four months.

Suggested Online Courses include:
> Leadership & Management
> Leadership Suite
> Building Teams That Work
> New Manager Suite
> Digital Marketing Suite
> Business Marketing Writing
> Creating Web Pages
> Intro to PC Security
> Marketing your Business on the Internet
> Using Social Media in Business
> Interpersonal Conflict
> Project Management Fundamentals

Browse our entire catalog of online ed2go courses here.

Other Courses:
Leadership Skills for Front Line Managers
May 18 & 19, 2021
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Trades & Technology Centre, Yorkton

Mental Health First Aid
May 4 & 5, 2021 – Virtual/Remote Delivery
June 2 & 3, 2021 – Trades & Technology Centre, Yorkton
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

*Note that all of the extensive Parkland College COVID-19 safety protocols for in-person training have been approved by the Ministry of Advanced Education. Parkland College’s top priority is the health and safety of clients, staff, and the community.

Every business has different needs. Additional courses other than those listed above could be eligible.

For more information, please call 306.786.2761 or email [email protected]

Parkland College has temporarily eliminated the application fee for the Office Administration and Continuing Care Assistant certificate programs.

For the month of April, domestic students can apply to Office Admin or CCA for $0. Online applications usually carry a $60 application fee.

To get started, visit the Office Administration or Continuing Care Assistant webpages and click on “Apply for Admission.”

If you have questions about the promotion, or if you want to learn more about these programs, call us toll free at 1.866.783.6766 or email [email protected]

Parkland College has awarded $48,200 to 50 students from across the region in this year’s Internal Scholarships. Combined with Entrance Scholarships handed out in the fall, Parkland College awarded more than $77,000 in the 2020-21 academic year.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, community members, College staff, and sponsors and participants in the Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

Eligible post-secondary awards are partially matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program. Funds are provided to supplement the contributions of local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about the scholarships available at Parkland College are encouraged to visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning Parkland College programs this fall will be awarded in September 2021. Applications for those awards are being accepted until May 15 at http://bit.ly/2021Entrance.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education locally. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Water and wastewater operators play an integral role in the maintenance of a clean water supply supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities. Parkland College and ATAP Infrastructure Management Ltd. are joining forces to ensure communities have access to the training they need to keep their water supplies safe and secure.

Parkland and ATAP have signed a partnership agreement to provide training in Class 1 Water and Wastewater Operator courses in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. The courses will be delivered through a blended model which provides flexibility in scheduling and location of training. Courses can be offered in person, remotely, or a combination of the two.

“This agreement is a great opportunity for the College and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh, President and CEO of Parkland College. “Blended Learning will make it easier for communities and municipalities to access this important training and benefit from ATAP’s expertise.”

ATAP brings to the partnership extensive engineering knowledge, an established curriculum, and expert instructors. The College provides a learning management system, instructional design experience, and IT support. Both organizations also have connections to partners throughout Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

“Over the past 20 years, ATAP has instructed certification courses and CEU workshops to thousands of operators across the Prairies,” said ATAP Manager Andrew Stevenson. “Our experience, from performing the same hands-on services onsite daily that we teach about, allows our instructors to transfer that real-life knowledge back to the students. We are excited to be partnering with a premier organization in Parkland College.”

The training is expected to launch in the fall of 2021. It will be made up of preparatory courses in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, and wastewater collection.

There is high demand for this type of training. Many towns, First Nation communities, and municipalities have identified needs in the area of water stewardship. Organizations interested in this training are invited to submit requests in advance.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

About ATAP Infrastructure Management Ltd.:
ATAP assists municipalities, Indigenous communities, and industry to operate and maintain their water, wastewater, and infrastructure through training, troubleshooting, and hands-on field services.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Paul Pinder, P.Eng.
Vice President & General Manager
ATAP
Phone: 306.653.4969

Parkland College announced Monday the launch of Introduction to Farm Hand, a new program developed to meet the labour needs of growing farm operations.

Introduction to Farm Hand is a short course that provides the basic skills and hands-on training needed to work on a grain farm in Saskatchewan. The first course module, beginning April 17, focuses on seeding and the busy spring season.

“This program is designed to meet the need for more skilled labour on Saskatchewan’s farms,” said Connie Brown, Manager of Business Development at Parkland College. “Farmers can send current or potential employees through the program to develop their skills. And it gives general labourers without a farm background the opportunity to gain the experience needed to work in agriculture.”

Participants will receive a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience over three Saturdays: April 17, April 24, and May 1. The Town of Lemberg is partnering with the College to host the training, at the town office and at a nearby farm.

The course provides an overview of field crops, Power Mobile Equipment theory, and hands-on training with selected pieces of farm equipment. Participants will also learn about basic farm safety and moving equipment safely around work sites.

Interested individuals can register or get more information by calling 306.786.2760.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Parkland College-Cumberland College Coalition officially launched its new five-year Strategic Plan today in an online event.

The 2020-2025 Strategic Plan is titled Stronger Together (PDF, 326 KB). The planning process began more than a year ago with public consultations in 16 communities across east-central and northeast Saskatchewan. It also incorporated feedback from learners, staff, employers, and the colleges’ Boards of Governors.

The plan defines a purpose for the Coalition of providing education and training to address regional labour market needs, preparing learners for employment and further education, and supporting the sustainable social, environmental, and economic development of employers and communities. It introduces a shared vision and mission, as well as seven key values. Four strategic pillars stand on this foundation, accompanied by a set of goals and objectives to guide the Coalition’s efforts and measure its success.

“This launch is a celebration of our two regional colleges and their collaboration to create a visionary plan that sets the direction for the Coalition,” said President & CEO Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh. “It is bold, innovative, and will help us increase our positive impact in our communities.”

The plan introduces the concept of the “E-Shaped Learner.” While the colleges excel at developing technical skills, this model supplements them with entrepreneurial, electronic literacy, and employability skills.

Saskatchewan’s Advanced Education Minister Gene Makowsky and Colleges and Institutes of Canada (CICan) President & CEO Denise Amyot provided messages of support during the launch.

“I think the title of the plan, Stronger Together, is more relevant today than likely ever before,” Makowsky said. “The Coalition’s contributions are making positive and sustainable impacts and enriching the lives of students and local communities.”

“Your strategic plan is not just a matter of delivering credentials,” Amyot noted, “but it is a holistic, ongoing approach that involves learners, faculty, employers, Indigenous peoples, and a host of community and government partners.”

With the recent two-year extension of the initial two-year pilot, the Coalition is well positioned to implement the initiatives outlined in the plan, focusing on positive outcomes for the colleges’ students, regions, and employers. The full Strategic Plan may be accessed at the About Us section of our website.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner-centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

In the midst of COVID-19, and in the middle of winter, it can be difficult to visualize better times ahead. But in a time of stress, it can help to think optimistically about the future.

With that in mind, the Parkland College-Cumberland College Coalition is introducing the #LookingForwardTo campaign on the colleges’ social media channels. Students, staff, and followers are encouraged to comment on these posts, or share pictures or GIFs, to illustrate their own personal hopes and expectations once restrictions loosen and the pandemic is over.

You can also tag your friends to see what they’re #LookingForwardTo once COVID-19 is history.

Although we can’t ignore the challenges and severe consequences we are facing right now, sharing messages of hope and optimism can help us get through it all together.

Special thanks to Brandon University for the inspiration.

In the face of climate change and food security concerns, environmental sustainability is more important than ever. That’s why Parkland College is partnering with Wakayos Employment and Training Centre on a new Essential Skills program in Balcarres.

Essential Skills for Environmental Sustainability begins March 8. The three-month course is an eco-friendly program that will teach construction basics with a focus on roofing systems. Participants will receive entry-level certification in solar panel installation, along with First Aid/CPR, WHMIS, and Fall Protection training. On-site job-shadows and tours will be provided, as well.

The course is ideal for anyone thinking about an environmentally sustainable career or for those with an interest in alternative energy sources and growing food at home.

If you’re interested, please call or email to pre-register. You’ll need to attend one of the three intake sessions on Feb. 10, Feb. 11, or Feb. 23.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:

Amanda Reeve
306.641.9171
[email protected]

Parkland College announces that Dana Wilkins has been hired as Vice President of Partnerships and Business Development, effective Feb. 1.

In this new role, Wilkins will primarily be responsible for leading and directing Strategic Plan objectives in the areas of partnership development, corporate training, marketing and branding, student recruitment, and applied research. He will work out of the Trades & Technology Centre in Yorkton.

In addition, Wilkins will be assigned the Chief Partnership and Business Development Officer role for the Parkland College-Cumberland College Coalition.

“We are thrilled to have Dana join our team,” said Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh, President and CEO of the two colleges. “This position is integral to meeting the goals and objectives of the Coalition 2020-2025 Strategic Plan. As we build on our employer and community relationships, and extend our reach to existing and new partners through corporate training, applied research, and other services, we will leverage these to continue our focus on the needs and success of our students.”

Wilkins has a wealth of business development consulting experience. He previously spent 13 years in senior executive leadership positions with the Ministry of Justice. He also holds an Executive Masters of Business Administration (EMBA) from the Kenneth Levene School of Business at the University of Regina.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

This spring, Parkland College will deliver a four-month program to train participants for careers in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

The Enhanced Career Bridging – Hospitality & Tourism Careers course runs from March 1 to June 23, 2021, at Parkland College’s Main Campus in Yorkton.

Information and intake sessions are scheduled for Feb. 16 and Feb. 17 at the Main Campus. Sessions begin at 10:30 a.m. both days.

The course includes industry certifications like Safe Food Handling, Responsible Service of Alcohol, and Customer Service. Upon completion, participants will also receive credit towards a designated trade for Food and Beverage Server and Bartender.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:

Jenna Stoppler
306.620.7152
[email protected]

Are you interested in supporting your fellow students while adding some valuable volunteer experience to your resume? Then consider participating in the peer-to-peer health outreach program.

Click here for a detailed description of the volunteer opportunity and the Peer Health outreach program.

To apply, or for more information, please contact:
Sophia Thomas
[email protected]

With Christmas just around the corner, Parkland College is planning to bring some cheer to students in need. The College will distribute gift cards to help students buy groceries for holiday meals.

A staff committee is collecting cash donations from employees which will be used to purchase gift cards at food retailers in the area. The College organized a similar initiative at Thanksgiving which made a significant difference for dozens of students and their families.

Students can nominate themselves or another student (with their consent) to receive one of these gift cards. The online nomination form can be accessed at https://bit.ly/ParklandXmas. Nominations will be accepted until Monday, Dec. 14 at 12 p.m.

Students selected to receive a gift card will be contacted by a College staff member. The gift cards are scheduled to be distributed to students on Wednesday, Dec. 16.

Parkland College is running another session of the Youth Employability & Skills Strategy (YESS) program. Introduced earlier this fall, the initiative is designed to help youth between 15 and 30 years of age train for their future and secure employment.

The program features diverse training areas and target outcomes. Participants receive advanced Essential Skills training, life skills/soft skills, and employment readiness. Students are mentored throughout the program and given on-the-job training opportunities. They also acquire industry certifications including First Aid/CPR, Food Safety, Serve It Right, STEC Customer Service, Mental Health First Aid, and more.

The 2021 program runs from Jan. 4 to Mar. 26. Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the Parkland College Main Campus in Yorkton.

Students must pre-register. Intake is underway.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:
Jenna Stoppler
306.620.7152
[email protected]

As of Monday, November 16, staff, students, and visitors will be required to wear masks at all Parkland College campuses and training sites, at all times, to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

This is an expansion of existing protocols, as masks have been required at Parkland College since late August.

Starting on Monday, masks will be mandatory in all areas, even when physical distancing of two metres is maintained. This applies to all individuals inside the classroom (students as well as instructors). Staff, students, and visitors are expected to arrive on campus with their own mask.

Parkland College continues to adhere to public health guidelines as delivered by the Government of Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Officer. The health, safety, and security of students and staff is the College’s top priority.

Parkland College awarded 18 Entrance Scholarships this fall with a combined value of approximately $29,000. All Entrance Scholarship recipients are taking university, skills training, or trades programs at Parkland College in the 2020-21 year.

These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community organizations, Parkland College staff, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship (SIOS) program. SIOS is a matching program in which funds are provided to supplement local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca. Internal Scholarships for students already enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2021. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning a Parkland College program in the fall of 2021 will be open for applications from March to May 2021.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education locally. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 23rd year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to its students.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is looking for feedback from students on how the College handled the COVID-19 crisis and the subsequent transition to Blended Learning.

The College has launched a survey to gauge how students are managing a very different educational experience this year.

Feedback is anonymous. Students who submit a response will be prompted to complete a separate optional survey which will enter them into a prize draw.

Responses will be accepted until Nov. 12, 2020.

Thanks to cash donations from Parkland College staff, and generous contributions from several businesses in Yorkton, more than 60 students from throughout the region are receiving a food hamper just in time for Thanksgiving.

Over the past week, students were able to be nominated to receive a hamper filled with food items such as canned vegetables, soup, pasta, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. Sixty-five students from Yorkton, Melville, Kamsack, and Fort Qu’Appelle received a hamper for the holiday.

Legacy Co-op in Yorkton provided reusable bags and a $500 gift card to spend on food. Save-On-Foods, Superstore, Giant Tiger, and Canadian Tire also donated gift cards and supplies to help with this giveaway.

“Parkland College is grateful for the support,” said President & CEO Mark Hoddenbagh. “It’s a terrific example of the community coming together, especially in these challenging times.”

Parkland College, Good Spirit School Division, and Christ The Teacher Catholic Schools have cancelled the Career Explorations education and job fair for 2020 due to COVID-19.

Public gatherings in Saskatchewan are currently limited to 30 people and physical distancing guidelines remain in effect. Every November, upwards of 2,000 students from Yorkton and area travel to the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton to attend Career Explorations. The event attracts up to 100 exhibitors from across Saskatchewan and Western Canada to meet these students.

“We began tentative planning in the spring, but it is now clear that hosting Career Explorations is not possible this fall,” said lead organizer Brendan Wagner of Parkland College. “We have been monitoring the COVID situation through the summer and we are continuing to follow the recommendations of public health officials, which unfortunately means that this event is not feasible this year.”

The organizing committee will examine potential options for online or virtual events during the 2020-21 academic year.

“Career Explorations is a terrific opportunity for students to learn about the many post-secondary and career options awaiting them. We will work with the school divisions to look at other ways of delivering this valuable event,” Wagner said.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

In 2019, many Parkland College students participated in an Orange Shirt Day project in which they depicted what reconciliation means to them by decorating squares of orange fabric.

On September 30, 2020 — Orange Shirt Day — the College unveiled quilts made out of those squares. The unique blankets are now on display at campuses in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, and Kamsack.

The College thanks the following quilters for donating their time by piecing together the squares, and framing and backing the blankets:

• Carol White (Melville)
• Ruth Erickson (Fort Qu’Appelle)
• Lynda Cherwenuk and Colleen Koroluk, Heart & Home Quilt Club (Kamsack)
• Barb Ferrier and Delores Pilipow of Innovative Quilting in Melville (Yorkton)

Special thanks to Ferrier and Pilipow for working on the very large (8 feet by 9 feet) blanket on display at the Main Campus, and to Pilipow for donating the material for the backing and the quilt batting.

The College is grateful for the contribution of these community members who were so willing to donate their time and talents in the spirit of reconciliation.

The Yorkton & District Community Foundation (YDCF) has awarded a grant of almost $8,000 to Parkland College to help fund mental health supports and tutorials for the new academic year.

The YDCF is responsible for delivering the federal government’s Emergency Community Support Fund (ECSF) in Yorkton and surrounding communities. The fund is aimed at helping community groups to serve vulnerable Canadians during the COVID-19 crisis.

Through the ECSF, $75,000 was made available to assist charities and qualifying recipients in the Yorkton area. Grants were also awarded to SaskAbilities, Boys & Girls Club of Yorkton, SIGN (Society for the Involvement of Good Neighbours), and Rail City Industries in Melville.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The application portal for the CIBC Future Heroes Bursary has been re-opened for Parkland College students after no eligible submissions were received during the initial application period this summer.

Two bursaries are designated for Parkland College students in 2020-21, each valued at $2,500.

Parkland College students are eligible to apply if they are enrolled in the first year of a certificate, diploma, bachelor degree, or applied bachelor program in health care, such as Practical Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing, Pre-Medicine, or Continuing Care Assistant. Complete eligibility requirements, conditions, and other details can be found here.

Click here to access the application portal. Applications will be accepted until 11 a.m. CST on Sept. 23, at which time the portal will close for the current school year, regardless of the number of applications received.

Parkland College campuses will re-open to learners and the public on Monday, August 31. This marks the fourth and final phase of the College’s re-opening plan and is the result of months of preparation for a healthy and safe return to in-person programming.

“We are ready to open our campuses,” said President & CEO Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh. “Our staff have worked incredibly hard over the summer to prepare our facilities to be compliant with COVID-19 guidelines. We have also devoted considerable effort to developing online programming and training our instructors to deliver curriculum online, in order to enrich the educational experience of our learners.”

Parkland College is delivering classes this fall through Blended Learning – a mix of online instruction, face-to-face classes, experiential learning, and alternative delivery methods. Blended Learning gives the College the flexibility to provide instruction while managing risks associated with COVID-19. All programs will have an online component to help limit the number of people on campus.

All visitors, students, and staff are required to wear masks. They are mandatory in hallways, bathrooms, common areas, and any space where physical distancing of two metres cannot be maintained.

Campus access tracking is an essential part of the College’s safety protocols. Members of the public accessing College sites are required to complete a brief health questionnaire and sign in on a visitor log.

Additional safety precautions are in place, including plexiglass shields at reception areas, extra hand sanitizer stations, and frequent cleaning and sanitizing schedules. Some common areas are off-limits or have restricted access, while decals have been placed on floors and signs on walls to help control traffic flow and aid in physical distancing.

“Our shared priority, at all levels of the education system, is the health and safety of students and staff,” Hoddenbagh added. “We are glad to be opening, but we remain ready to adapt at any point as the pandemic evolves.”

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

As of Monday, August 24, all staff, students, and visitors will be required to wear masks at Parkland College campuses and training sites to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

Masks will be mandatory in hallways, bathrooms, common areas, and any space where physical distancing of two metres (approximately six feet) cannot be maintained.

Masks do not remove the requirement to adhere to physical distancing in the classroom. However, there will be times when students and staff are required to be in close proximity for labs, shop time, or receiving or providing instruction. In these cases, masks are mandatory as they add a vital layer of protection.

Disposable masks will be available for students (if required) during the transition week of August 24-28. After this time, disposable masks will not be provided for general daily use. Visit the Health Canada website for guidance on non-medical masks/face coverings and instructions for making your own mask.

Parkland College continues to adhere to public health guidelines as delivered by the Government of Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Officer. The health, safety, and security of students and staff is the College’s top priority.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College is pleased to introduce the Youth Employability & Skills Strategy (YESS) program. The initiative is designed to help youth between 15 and 30 years of age train for their future and secure employment.

The program is a successor to the Skills Link program, and features similar training areas and target outcomes. Participants receive advanced Essential Skills training, life skills/soft skills, and employment readiness. Students are mentored throughout the program and given on-the-job training opportunities. They also acquire industry certifications including First Aid/CPR, Food Safety, Serve It Right, STEC Customer Service, Mental Health First Aid, and more.

The 2020 program runs from Sept. 14 to Dec. 4. Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Parkland College Main Campus in Yorkton.

Students must pre-register at an intake session on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 10:30 a.m.

To register, or for more information, please contact the Essential Skills team:

Jenna Stoppler
306.620.7152
[email protected]

Anita Vincent
306.786.7308
[email protected]

COVID-19 may have forced the cancellation of this year’s Parkland College/East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) research farm field day, but a series of new videos just released to YouTube is taking the tour online.

Research trials are underway this summer on land south of Yorkton provided by the City, and on plots exchanged with the Health Foundation to assist with crop rotation.

“As we typically have about 100 participants at our annual farm tour, we had to cancel due to the restrictions on public gatherings,” said research coordinator Mike Hall. “To make up for this, we put together a series of videos to give people a virtual tour of the farm.”

The videos are between two minutes and six minutes in length. Research farm staff produced an introductory episode and five segments focusing on individual projects:

Episode 1: Input Management for Malt vs. Feed Barley
Episode 2: In-season Applications of UAN vs. Dissolved Urea for Increasing Wheat Protein
Episode 3: Oat Test Weight
Episode 4: Effect of Nozzle Type & Boom Height on Fusarium Head Blight Suppression in Wheat
Episode 5: Blackstrap Dry Beans Response to Added Nitrogen

The videos can be found on the ECRF’s YouTube channel and at www.ecrf.ca.

“We are excited to showcase the great work we are doing at the research farm,” said Dr. Gwen Machnee, Parkland College’s Coordinator of Applied Research. “And we are looking forward to expanding our research horizons in the future.”

Since 2013, the College and the ECRF have worked together on the research farm. Projects vary each year and are supported by numerous funding agencies, producer groups, and private industry.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and Cumberland College intend to deliver classes this fall through blended learning. The colleges are coordinating with post-secondary institutions across Saskatchewan on this hybrid approach to education.

This Blended Learning model provides the programming flexibility needed to manage the risks of the COVID-19 pandemic while ensuring the continued health and safety of students, faculty, and staff. This concept follows the guidance of the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan, which advanced to Phase 3 on June 8.

“Our current plan is to offer a blend of online, face-to-face, and alternative programming,” said President & CEO Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh. How class time is divided for any program or course will be determined by a number of factors, he said, including the necessity of face-to-face (hands-on labs and shop time), the needs of students (e.g. no Internet access off-campus), availability of space, and any restrictions imposed by the government.

The post-secondary sector’s planning for the fall is well underway, including contingency plans for a resurgence of the virus, where in-class learning cannot resume as planned, either regionally or provincially. The colleges will continue to adhere to public health guidelines as delivered by the Government of Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Officer.

“Our shared priority, at all levels of the education system, is the health and safety of students and staff,” Hoddenbagh added. “We are prepared to adjust our plan and timelines at any point as the pandemic evolves.”

Students are encouraged to monitor the colleges’ websites for additional details about their specific program and classes. Details will be communicated to students as 2020-2021 programming decisions are finalized.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

First-year students enrolled in eligible health care programs at Parkland College are invited to apply for a CIBC Future Heroes Bursary valued at $2,500. CIBC has created the bursary program in tribute to the people who are bravely fighting COVID-19, and as a way of supporting the next generation in their ambition of having a career in health care.

CIBC has committed $500,000 towards the Future Heroes Fund over the next two years. For the 2020-2021 academic year, 150 bursaries will be available to students entering their first year of study in an eligible health care program at 50 select Canadian registered colleges or universities.

Parkland College and Cumberland College students are eligible to apply if they are entering the Continuing Care Assistant, Practical Nursing, or Primary Care Paramedic programs, as well as university studies with plans to go into Nursing or Medicine. Two students from each institution will receive bursaries in 2020-21.

“I’d like to thank the CIBC Future Heroes Bursary fund for providing this opportunity for our students,” said Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh, President & CEO. “These bursaries clearly show the importance of fostering the next generation of health care workers.”

Applications are being accepted until July 15. Universities Canada will conduct the selection and administration of the bursaries. Chosen candidates can expect to receive their funds starting in September.

To learn more and apply, click here.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has been awarded a $200,000 research grant by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The Innovation Enhancement grant is designated for improvements at the research farm just south of Yorkton, which the College operates in partnership with the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF).

NSERC announced funding last week for 128 new applied research projects at colleges, CÉGEPs, and polytechnics across Canada. The projects focus on priority areas such as agriculture, clean energy, and artificial intelligence.

Parkland College and ECRF will use the NSERC funding primarily to hire students for work integrated learning opportunities at the research farm. The students will assist researchers in their work during the growing season. The funding will be also be used to purchase farm equipment and video equipment used to share the results of research projects.

This season, researchers are conducting a number of trials and demonstration projects on land supplied by the City of Yorkton. Some of these projects are supported by the provincial government Agriculture Demonstration of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) program, with others sponsored by businesses in the agriculture industry.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Wednesday, May 27 was supposed to be graduation day at Parkland College. Since we can’t get together to celebrate due to COVID-19, we asked our staff to share a message with our grads.

Due to uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Parkland College’s 2020 Graduation Ceremony is postponed until further notice. A makeup date will be announced when it is safe to do so.

Graduation photo sessions scheduled for March 23-24 in Yorkton and March 30 in Kamsack, Melville & Fort Qu’Appelle are also postponed.

Information will be updated on the Graduation page as it becomes available.

The Parkland College Graduation Committee thanks you for your understanding and apologizes for any inconvenience.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and Cumberland College are beginning public consultations that will result in the creation of a strategic plan for the next five years.

The two colleges formed a pilot Coalition in the fall of 2018 to focus on improving operational efficiencies and organizational effectiveness. The colleges are working closely in a number of areas to better utilize resources and improve outcomes. One key deliverable is the creation of a Coalition Strategic Plan which involves robust consultations with internal and external stakeholders.

Community Engagement Sessions have been scheduled over the next five weeks in 16 communities across east-central and northeast Saskatchewan. Business representatives, community leaders, and members of the general public are encouraged to participate.

Nine of these sessions are scheduled in Parkland College’s region:

Click here for full details and registration information. If you have questions about these sessions, please email [email protected].

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A new project at Ocean Man First Nation will teach valuable hands-on skills to several students while building a tiny house for the community.

The Tiny House Project was officially launched Monday. It is the second Essential Skills project of its kind, delivered in partnership by Parkland College, Yorkton Tribal Council, Ocean Man First Nation, and the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission.

Program participants and sponsors gathered Feb. 3 at Ocean Man First Nation to launch the project.

Over the next five months, several students will have the opportunity to learn construction skills as well as life and employability skills. By the end of June, the students will build an environmentally responsible tiny house from the ground up.

Some of the building materials, tools, and appliances will be donated. The finished home will be awarded to a family within the community.

“Parkland College is pleased to be working with such committed and generous partners in providing robust training and experiential learning opportunities for our Indigenous youth,” said Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh, Parkland College President & CEO. “That this project will provide a wonderful home for community members is an added bonus.”

The Tiny House project is also supported by Indigenous Services Canada.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has invited Social School, Canada’s premier marketing academy, to Yorkton for a special one-day event.

The Calgary-based digital marketing firm will deliver the Social School Workshop on Thursday, February 6 at the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton. The event includes how-to talks and hands-on exercises designed to provide businesses with the most timely social media and digital marketing tactics, insights, and ideas. Topics will include Social & Digital Strategy, Paid Advertising, Mobile Photography & Video, Email Marketing, and more.

This year, Social School is hosting conferences in some major Canadian cities, including Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Ottawa. By bringing Social School to Yorkton for this one-day event, Parkland College is offering local companies the opportunity to grow their business without the burden of travel costs and time away from the office.

To register for the Social School Workshop at the Trades & Technology Centre in Yorkton, call 306.786.2760.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

About 2,000 high school students and visitors from the Parkland region attended Career
Explorations 2019 at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Thursday. The 10th annual
education and career fair attracted close to 80 exhibitors from across Saskatchewan,
Western Canada, and North Dakota.

Career Explorations is the largest education and job fair in East Central Saskatchewan. It is organized by Parkland College, in association with Good Spirit School Division and
Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools.

The goal of the career fair is to provide students with many of the options available to them once they finish high school. Career Explorations puts all these options under one roof.

Students and visitors were able to access information from dozens of educational
institutions and companies from numerous sectors of the economy, including agriculture, health, mining, technology, public safety, and government.

Career Explorations was created from a Learning Alliance signed in 2008 between Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College. Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools has expanded its role since joining the organizing committee in 2012.

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Contact information:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator of Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College awarded 20 Entrance Scholarships with a combined value of approximately $40,500 at a presentation event Tuesday in Yorkton. All students receiving Entrance Scholarships this fall are taking university, skills training, or trades programs at Parkland College.
 

These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community organizations, Parkland College staff, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship (SIOS) program. SIOS is a matching program in which funds are provided to supplement local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca. Internal Scholarships for students already enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2020. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education locally. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 22nd year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to its students.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College will receive over $158,000 from the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training to deliver a new program in Yorkton that will help students prepare for a career in the tourism and hospitality industries.

The Enhanced Career Bridging Program aims to connect unemployed individuals to the labour force and obtain employment. This project will provide career training for 16 participants, covering key areas including job readiness, fundamental workplace skills, and credit towards a designated trade with Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC).

Parkland College will work closely with Yorkton Tribal Council on the program, which will be delivered at the Trades & Technology Centre, beginning Aug. 19. It consists of 12 weeks of in-class training, followed by a six-week work placement. Participants will acquire numerous qualifications, including Food and Beverage Server Certification, Bartender Certification, Safe Food Handling, and First Aid/CPR.

“This is a great opportunity for unemployed individuals to learn life and work skills that will help them build confidence, gain experience, and prepare them for employment,” said Mark Hoddenbagh, President and CEO of Parkland College and Cumberland College.

The College is grateful for additional funding from the Ministry, and the support and engagement of local industry employers for work placements and career opportunities.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information, contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed about 80 farmers, agriculture professionals, and industry representatives to their seventh annual research farm field day Tuesday near Yorkton. The event highlights the agriculture applied research partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began in 2013.

This summer there are numerous projects underway at the joint research farm 1 km south of Yorkton on York Lake Road. There is also a secondary site just southeast of the city. Researchers are conducting a variety of trials on numerous crops, including wheat, oats, barley, canola, and peas.

Parkland College and ECRF have a long-term plan to carry out agriculture research activities in the Yorkton area. The partnership enabled Parkland College to become the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program to serve regional economic development. The College also uses the field research site to provide hands-on training and summer employment to students enrolled in agriculture programs.

The data collected on site throughout the growing season will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers. More information on these and other projects is available at www.ecrf.ca.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

About East Central Research Foundation:
Established in 1996, the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) is a non-profit organization whose mandate is to conduct crop production research and extension activities for the agricultural industry of east central Saskatchewan. It is directed by a board of local producers and advised by provincial specialists.

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Parkland College officially introduced President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mark Hoddenbagh to local media Friday in Yorkton.

Hoddenbagh was recently appointed President/CEO by the coalition of Parkland College and Cumberland College, effective July 1. He has a wide range of experience in numerous fields connected to post-secondary education, including strategic planning, applied research, indigenous strategy, and business development.

His first day on the job was July 2 at Parkland College’s Main Campus in Yorkton. He also visited the Trades & Technology Centre and the Melville and Esterhazy campuses. He then made his first visit to Cumberland College July 8-9 and met with staff in Melfort, Nipawin, and Tisdale. Hoddenbagh is eager to get to know the people around the colleges and partners in the communities they serve.

“I’m a big believer in colleges,” Hoddenbagh said. “I find that they’re led by incredible people who have great skills. These skills go beyond academic skills and knowledge to include the life, work, and people skills that I think are very important and used in the workplace every day.

“I’m very passionate about combining technical education with work skills training and having graduates who are job ready from day one.”

The Cumberland College-Parkland College coalition will be a pilot project for up to two years. The colleges continue to operate separately, but now share one region, a single CEO, and a governance structure in which the same individuals are simultaneously appointed to the boards of both colleges.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

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The coalition of Parkland College and Cumberland College today announced the appointment of Mark Hoddenbagh as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2019.

“We are excited to welcome Mark to Cumberland College and Parkland College,” said Board of Governors co-chair Raymond Sass. “He brings a wealth of experience and leadership which will guide our colleges in this new coalition.”

Hoddenbagh has a wide range of experience in numerous fields connected to post-secondary education, including strategic planning, applied research, indigenous strategy, and business development. In his new role, Hoddenbagh will be responsible for setting the colleges’ strategic direction and representing their mission, vision, and values. He will work to expand partnerships with business, industry, and communities.

“I am passionate about post-secondary education and a huge supporter of colleges and all they have to offer,” Hoddenbagh said. “I am very excited to have the privilege of leading the coalition.”

The two colleges are embarking on a pilot coalition for up to two years. The colleges continue to operate separately, but now share one region, a single CEO, and a governance structure in which the same individuals are simultaneously appointed to the boards of Cumberland College and Parkland College.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

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The 14th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, held Thursday at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton, raised an estimated $15,100 for the Parkland College scholarship fund.

Eighty-six golfers made the best of the day on the course despite persistent rain showers. Participants supported the fundraiser with their registration fees, contest entries, and raffle ticket purchases.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the College’s largest scholarship fundraiser. Parkland College has now raised over $255,000 since the first tournament in 2006.

“This is a very important part of our scholarship program,” said Dollars for Scholars chairperson Brendan Wagner. “The community gives us so much support, and it’s that generosity that helps more local students get their post-secondary education close to home.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic receives support from numerous sources. Banquet sponsor RH Electric and Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, SaskTel, and RBC Foundation played key roles in the success of the tournament. The College also thanks the dozens of other sponsors for their financial support and prize donations.

The 15th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively planned for Friday, June 19, 2020.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A 350-square-foot tiny home was unveiled Wednesday to dozens of supporters and community members at Cote First Nation, near Kamsack. It marked the completion of the Tiny House Project, an Essential Skills partnership between Parkland College, Yorkton Tribal Council, and Cote First Nation.

The Tiny House Project was launched at the end of January. Eight students gained hands-on construction skills as well as life and employability skills as they built the house from the ground up. The finished home was given away in a lottery draw to community member Gloria Pelly.

The tiny house features one bedroom, an open-concept living area and kitchen, full bathroom, and attached deck. Many of the building materials, tools, and appliances were donated by businesses in the area. Home Hardware in Yorkton outfitted the students with tools and safety gear, while solar panels from Living Skies Solar were installed on the roof to reduce the carbon footprint of the house.

The Tiny House project was supported by the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) and Indigenous Services Canada. SATCC announced at the wrap-up celebration that another Yorkton Tribal Council tiny house project has been approved for 2020.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Wednesday at the Yorkton Regional High School’s Anne Portnuff Theatre. Family, friends, staff, and the College’s partners in education congratulated and celebrated 367 students who successfully completed one of more than 20 programs offered at the College in 2018-19.

Interim CEO Kami DePape presents a certificate to Bachelor of Indigenous Education graduate Ryan Brass

The graduates represent 53 Saskatchewan communities and seven Manitoba communities. Yorkton led the way with 111 grads, followed by Kamsack with 31, Fort Qu’Appelle with 19, Melville with 17, and Regina with 14. The graduating class also included 76 international students from India, the Philippines, Greece, Bangladesh, and Mauritius.

SIGN counsellor and Parkland College alumna Corrine McArthur delivered remarks as guest speaker

This year, Parkland College offered university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, and Adult Basic Education classes. Graduates from post-secondary programs received accreditation from the University of Saskatchewan, First Nations University of Canada, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies, Conestoga College, and Parkland College.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College has been selected for a national award recognizing its achievements in indigenous education.

Parkland College won the Silver Award for Indigenous Education Excellence at the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) annual conference this week. NorQuest College (Edmonton) was chosen for the gold, while Algonquin College (Ottawa) took the bronze.

Parkland College serves over 6,000 students in rural Saskatchewan with 43 per cent identifying as Indigenous. The College works with 11 First Nations communities and two tribal councils in the Parkland region.

“Our commitment to these students and communities is embodied in our strategic plan, shaped as a medicine wheel with indigenization embedded in every priority,” said Interim CEO Kami DePape. “The College’s governance structure, partnerships, student supports, curriculum, and learning environments focus on providing training success and labour market engagement for our Indigenous learners and communities.”

The CICan Awards of Excellence recognize best practices at institutions across the country. There are eight categories for excellence in leadership, indigenous education, internationalization, applied research, and general program achievements.

“Colleges and institutes are so successful thanks to passionate staff, teachers, researchers and administrators who work tirelessly to provide students with the skills and experience they need to succeed”, said Denise Amyot, President and CEO of CICan. “Every year, the CICan Awards of Excellence recognize these dedicated people who go above and beyond to make Canada’s post-secondary education the best in the world.”

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Government of Saskatchewan has appointed six individuals to serve on a new Board of Governors for Parkland College and Cumberland College.

In October, it was announced that the two colleges would embark on a pilot coalition for up to two years. Both colleges will remain separate, but they will share one region, a single Chief Executive Officer, and a governance structure in which the same individuals will be simultaneously appointed to the boards of Cumberland College and Parkland College.

On May 2, the Minister of Advanced Education authorized the Parkland College and Cumberland College regions to be combined into a single region which will be served by both colleges. The government also appointed the following board members: Wendy Becenko (Kamsack), Marcel Head (Shoal Lake), Brian Hicke (Melville), Lori Kidney (Tisdale), Raymond Sass (Yorkton), and Corinna Stevenson (Melfort). Sass and Stevenson have been named co-chairs.

Back row (L to R): Brian Hicke (Melville), Raymond Sass (Yorkton), Marcel Head (Shoal Lake); Front row (L to R): Wendy Becenko (Kamsack), Corrina Stevenson (Melfort), Lori Kidney (Tisdale)

A joint steering committee is nearing the end of its search for the shared CEO position. The colleges expect to have a permanent CEO in place by June 30.

Further updates will be provided as the partnership progresses.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

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For more information, contact:

Ray Sass
Chair, Board of Governors
Parkland College
Email: [email protected]

Corinna Stevenson
Chair, Board of Governors
Cumberland College
Email: [email protected]

The Parkland College Main Campus, Yorkton Regional High School, and Kid’s Zone Daycare were briefly evacuated on Wednesday afternoon. It was part of an extensive lockdown drill involving first responders and emergency crews in the City of Yorkton.

The exercise, dubbed Project Lockdown, was initiated by Yorkton RCMP. It involved months of planning and coordination with YRHS and Parkland College.

The drill began shortly after 1:00 p.m. Numerous police and peace officers were involved, as well as Yorkton Fire Protective Services and Crestvue Ambulance. The exercise extended the regular lockdown drill and included an evacuation simulation, sending students and staff to nearby Sacred Heart High School.

The drill was completed smoothly and the all-clear was given less than an hour after it began. Students and staff returned to their classrooms and work stations, and were invited to debrief and provide comments and suggestions to improve the emergency response. Counsellors were also made available to learners and employees who required support.

Parkland College extends its thanks to staff and students for their participation in this important event. The drill will assist in the development and improvement of the College’s Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) program and safety procedures. It also provided an opportunity for emergency service providers in Yorkton to work through their protocols and enhance their response in the event of a real threat.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A pair of Parkland College students welded their way to the top spots in a provincial skills competition in Saskatoon on April 12.

Lukas Muir and Cody Wlasichuk, both of Yorkton, brought home the gold and silver medals, respectively, in the Skills Canada Saskatchewan Welding competition. The contest required competitors to demonstrate their knowledge in reading plans and interpreting welding symbols, and their mastery of the main welding processes used in today’s industry.

Lukas Muir (left) and Cody Wlasichuk showed off their medals Monday at the Trades & Technology Centre in Yorkton.

“It was a really fun time being there and coming home with two medals for Yorkton,” said Wlasichuk. “You felt the stress (of the competition). But as soon as you locked your focus in, you were ready to give ‘er.”

The students were quick to praise their instructor, Blaine Miller.

“We trained a lot and trained very hard,” Muir said. “We couldn’t have done it without Blaine. He taught us a lot and showed us everything we needed to know.”

Miller said the students’ success is a reflection of their dedication and commitment to the craft.

“We always want to be in a competition just to see how other people are training and what their welds are like,” Miller said. “But when you can place in the competition, it’s just a bonus.”

As a gold medal winner, Muir will represent Saskatchewan at the Skills Canada National Competition May 28-29 in Halifax, N.S. He will be required to complete three projects within a set time limit over the two days. He started training on Monday for the competition, which Miller calls an extremely challenging one.

“In the workforce, welders specialize in these types of welds, which include pressure welding with TIG (tungsten inert gas, also known as gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW)), SMAW (shielded metal arc welding), and GMAW (gas metal arc welding),” Miller said. “The type of material that will be used will range from mild steel to stainless steel and aluminum.”

“I’ve got a lot of work to put in,” Muir said. “But I think by the end of it, I’ll be confident and do well.”

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

On Tuesday in Yorkton, Parkland College awarded $50,775 to 63 students across the region in this spring’s Internal Scholarships. Combined with Entrance Scholarships handed out in September, Parkland College awarded more than $128,000 in the 2018-19 academic year.

This is the eighth straight year in which the College has given out more than $100,000 in scholarships. In that time, the College has awarded well over $1 million in scholarships to local learners.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, community members, College staff, and sponsors and participants in the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

Eligible post-secondary awards are partially matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program. Funds are provided to supplement the contributions of local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about the scholarships available at Parkland College are encouraged to visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning Parkland College programs this fall will be awarded in September 2019. Applications for those awards are being accepted now until May 22 at http://bit.ly/2019Entrance.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and Cumberland College have launched their CEO search.

The colleges formed a trial coalition in October that will result in a shared president/CEO and Board of Governors. A joint steering committee is leading the search for a CEO. After reviewing timelines at its last meeting, the committee has adjusted its target hire date from April 30 to June 30.

The job advertisement will be posted at www.parklandcollege.sk.ca and www.cumberlandcollege.sk.ca.

Both colleges remain focused on maintaining a local presence and providing high quality education in their regions.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

About Cumberland College:
Cumberland College is committed to providing the highest quality program and services to the people and communities of northeast Saskatchewan. The College offers a friendly learning atmosphere where one can focus on achieving education or employment goals. A multifaceted institution, the College offers university classes, skills training, academic upgrading, community education and professional development as well as custom designed programs for business and industry partners.

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A new project at Cote First Nation will teach valuable hands-on skills to several students while building a tiny house for one of the community’s elders.

The Tiny House Project was officially launched Monday. It is a new Essential Skills program delivered in partnership by Parkland College, Yorkton Tribal Council, and Cote First Nation. Over the next five months, several students at the Chief Gabriel Cote Education Complex will have the opportunity to learn construction skills as well as life and employability skills. By the end of June, the students will have built an environmentally responsible tiny house from the ground up.

The students who will be participating in the Tiny House Project are: (left to right) Emma Keshane, Zachary Whitehawk, Regan Kakakaway, Xavier Brass, Alexandra Cote, Darryl Turner. (Absent: Telesphore Wapash, Clayton Whitehawk)

Some of the building materials, tools, and appliances will be donated. Home Hardware in Yorkton has outfitted the students with tools and safety gear, while solar panels from Living Skies Solar will be installed to reduce the carbon footprint of the house. The finished home will be donated to an elder chosen by the community.

The Tiny House project is also supported by the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission and by Indigenous Services Canada.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College announced today that Kami DePape will serve as interim president and CEO following the retirement of Dwayne Reeve. Reeve stepped down effective Dec. 31.

DePape has worked for the College in various leadership roles since 2003. Her current position is Vice President of Academics.

In October, Parkland College and Cumberland College formed a trial coalition that will result in the two colleges sharing a president/CEO and a single Board of Governors. A joint steering committee and Ministry of Advanced Education officials are leading the transition. A target hire date for a permanent CEO is set for April 30, 2019.

Parkland College remains focused on maintaining a local presence and providing high quality education in the Parkland region.

Further updates will be provided as the partnership progresses.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

An estimated 2,000 high school students and visitors from the Parkland region attended Career Explorations 2018 at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Tuesday. The ninth annual education and career fair attracted about 80 exhibitors from across Saskatchewan, Western Canada, and North Dakota.

Career Explorations is the largest education and job fair in East Central Saskatchewan. It is organized by Parkland College, Good Spirit School Division, and Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools.

The goal of the career fair is to provide students with many of the options available to them once they finish high school. Career Explorations puts all these options under one roof. Students and visitors were able to access information from dozens of educational institutions and companies from numerous sectors of the economy, including agriculture, health, mining, public safety, and government.

Career Explorations was created from a Learning Alliance signed in 2008 between Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College. Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools has expanded its role since joining the organizing committee in 2012.

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Contact information:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator of Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and Cumberland College are embarking on a partnership that will result in the two colleges sharing a president/CEO and a single Board of Governors.

“Both Parkland College and Cumberland College are without a permanent CEO at this time. The two colleges are taking a shared leadership role in developing a future path for the regional college system in in Saskatchewan,” said Corinna Stevenson, Cumberland College Board Chair.

A joint steering committee will lead the search for the shared CEO position. A target hire date has been set for April 30, 2019. The time frame seeks to bring clarity and stability to both colleges and the staff, learners, and communities who depend on them.

The recommendation for the coalition between the two colleges was made by the Task Force on Regional College Efficiency which includes Board Chairs and College CEOs from across the province. The process to seek board and government approval is now underway and remains a key factor prior to formal implementation of the new coalition.

“The priority is to maintain our local presence and provide high quality education for adults in our region,” said Raymond Sass, Board Chair of Parkland College. “In times of change, it’s essential to be open and transparent. We are committed to updating our students, staff, and the community throughout the process.”

Regular updates will be provided as the partnership progresses.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The college offers a superior learning and campus experience with locations in Yorkton, Melville, Fort Qu’Appelle, Esterhazy, Canora, and Kamsack.

About Cumberland College:
Since 1975, Cumberland College has been providing high quality training and education programs for adults in northeastern Saskatchewan. Campuses are located in Nipawin, Melfort, and Tisdale.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Corinna Stevenson
Board Chairperson
Cumberland College
Phone: 306-921-7452

Lynn Verklan
Interim CEO
Cumberland College
Phone: 306-862-8751

Parkland College awarded 21 Entrance Scholarships with a combined value of approximately $84,400 at a presentation event Tuesday in Yorkton. All students receiving Entrance Scholarships this fall are taking university, skills training, or trades programs at Parkland College.

These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, Parkland College staff, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship (SIOS) program. SIOS is a matching program in which funds are provided to supplement local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to visit the Scholarships section of this website. Internal Scholarships for students already enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2019. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education locally. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 21st year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to its students.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College welcomed a new group of firefighting recruits July 30 in Melville.

Twenty-one students are enrolled in the NFPA 1001 Professional Firefighting program this fall. Until the beginning of November, platoon #15 will learn the ins and outs of firefighting at the Melville fire hall and at Parkland College’s Emergency Services Training Site just east of the city.

On truck (L to R): Riley Gyorgy (Saskatoon), Cody Kirton (Regina), Colton Hagley (Regina), Jordan Bieber (Regina), Connor Wilder (Regina). On ground (L to R): Jason Mo (Regina), Alexa Scammell (Saskatoon), David Gessner (Saskatoon), Racquel Lys (Fort Qu'Appelle), Brett Boha (Yorkton), Mitchell Wilson (Cupar), Connor Holoboff (Moose Jaw), Dylan Calvert (Wynyard), Cole Morris (Regina), Jesse Berthelette (Martensville), Chase Griffin (Saskatoon), Zackery Nixey (Regina), Ryan Tarry (Regina), Grant Gessner (White City), Connor Brown (Moose Jaw), Koby Keepness (Regina).

Parkland College offers the only full-time professional firefighting training program in Saskatchewan through a partnership with Lakeland College of Vermilion, AB. For more about the College’s firefighter training program, click here.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed about 70 farmers, agriculture professionals, and industry representatives to their sixth annual research farm field day Thursday near Yorkton. The event highlights the agriculture applied research partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began in 2013.

This summer there are numerous projects underway at the joint research farm 1 km south of Yorkton on York Lake Road. There is also a secondary site east of the city. Researchers are conducting a variety of trials on numerous crops, including wheat, oats, barley, canola, quinoa, soybeans, and many more.

Parkland College and ECRF have a long-term plan to carry out agriculture research activities in the Yorkton area. The partnership enabled Parkland College to become the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program to serve regional economic development. The College also uses the field research site to provide hands-on training to students enrolled in agriculture programs.

The data collected on site throughout the growing season will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers. More information on these and other projects is available at www.ecrf.ca.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

About East Central Research Foundation:
Established in 1996, the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) is a non-profit organization whose mandate is to conduct crop production research and extension activities for the agricultural industry of east central Saskatchewan. It is directed by a board of local producers and advised by provincial specialists.

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For more information contact:
Mike Hall
Research Coordinator
Parkland College/ECRF
Phone: 306.621.6032

Parkland College is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members to its Board of Governors. Wendy Becenko and Ken Karius have joined the board and attended their first meeting on June 21.

Wendy Becenko and Ken Karius have joined the Parkland College Board of Governors.

Becenko, from Kamsack, is an administrator for the Rural Municipality of Calder. She has served on Kamsack Town Council and has volunteered with many community organizations including the East Central Tourism Board and Community Futures Ventures.

Karius is a Melville resident and Saskatchewan Operations Manager for North American Lumber. He is a former Melville city councillor and has served numerous community organizations including Melville Minor Sports, Melville Chamber of Commerce, and Melville Regional Park Authority.

With the new additions, the Parkland College Board of Governors currently has five members. Yorkton’s Raymond Sass is the longest-serving current governor, having joined the board in 2013. Melville’s Brian Hicke and Yorkton’s Leonard Keshane began their terms in 2016. Two more appointments are expected in the near future to give the board a full complement of seven members.

The Board of Governors meets monthly to oversee Parkland College’s operations and to provide direction and guidance on institutional decisions. Board members advocate on behalf of the College and support efforts relating to regional economic growth.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Parkland College Board of Governors has announced that Dwayne Reeve will continue to serve as the College’s president on a part-time basis for the rest of 2018.

Reeve tendered his resignation in January with the intention of stepping down at the end of July. However, Parkland College’s recruiting process for a new president was put on hold this spring after the Ministry of Advanced Education formed a Task Force on Regional College Efficiency. Rather than leave the College without a president, Reeve has agreed to continue as president in a half-time role until Dec. 31, 2018.

This arrangement will allow the Task Force to complete its work before the president’s role is filled on a permanent basis.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The 13th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, held Friday at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton, raised an estimated $17,500 for the Parkland College scholarship fund.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the College’s largest single scholarship fundraiser. Parkland College has now raised over $240,000 since the first tournament in 2006.

“This event is a vital part of our scholarship initiative,” said Dollars for Scholars chairperson Brendan Wagner. “Thanks to the generosity of our golfers and sponsors, more students can earn scholarships as they learn close to home and start their careers.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic receives support from numerous sources. Banquet sponsor RH Electric and Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, SaskTel, and RBC Foundation played key roles in the success of the tournament. The College also thanks the dozens of other sponsors for their financial support and prize donations.

A total of 105 golfers supported the scholarship fund with their entry fees and enjoyed a mostly hot and sunny day, weathering a brief mid-afternoon rain delay.

The 14th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic will be planned for late June 2019.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Thursday at the Yorkton Regional High School’s Anne Portnuff Theatre. Family, friends, staff, and the College’s partners in education congratulated and celebrated 378 students who successfully completed one of more than 20 programs offered at the College in 2017-18.

The graduates represent 49 Saskatchewan communities and seven Manitoba communities. Yorkton led the way with 113 grads, followed by Fort Qu’Appelle with 24, Melville and Kamsack with 22 each, and Regina with 17. The graduating class also included 74 international students from India, Jamaica, Philippines, and Mauritius.

Parkland College offers university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, and Adult Basic Education upgrading. Graduates from post-secondary programs received accreditation from the University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Conestoga College, Assiniboine Community College, and Parkland College.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Parkland College Board of Governors has announced that the recruiting process for a new president and chief executive officer is temporarily on hold.

The College began the recruiting process after current president Dwayne Reeve tendered his resignation in January. Reeve will step down effective July 31, 2018.

The Ministry of Advanced Education recently informed the Parkland College Board of Governors that the newly formed Task Force on Regional College Efficiency will need to complete its work before a permanent CEO is put in place.

The Board will work with the Ministry to determine an interim course of action to fill the CEO position effective August 1.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association’s (CASA) BeGrainSafe mobile training unit stopped in Melville for several days this week. Firefighters from a number of east-central Saskatchewan departments attended to receive training for grain entrapment rescues.

The trailer is used across the Prairie provinces to train municipal fire departments and industrial emergency response units on the specialized rescue techniques required to help someone entrapped in grain on the farm or in grain handling facilities. Firefighters must follow specific procedures to increase their chances of a successful rescue, while keeping members of their department safe.

The BeGrainSafe trailer features a built-in silo filled with grain, with a demonstration platform above. A small crane-like device lowers a mannequin or volunteer into the silo. Once entrapped, at least two properly trained rescue demonstrators surround the “victim” with a steel rescue tube to stabilize the grain. Then a small auger is used to safely extract the grain from around the “victim” until they can be freed.

Brittany Schofer (left) and Parker Ellert of Melville Fire & Rescue install the first panel of the rescue tube around Parkland College lead fire instructor Scott Weston.

There are also interactive displays and activities, including a lung display that demonstrates how difficult it is to breathe in grain, a flowing grain display that shows how quickly someone can become engulfed in grain, and a leg display that illustrates the force of grain on the body.

On Friday, CASA teamed up with Parkland College and the City of Melville to host demonstrations at the Merv Moore Sportsplex. The event was designed to raise awareness of strategies to prevent grain entrapment.

Brittany Schofer (left) and Parker Ellert of Melville Fire & Rescue use an auger to extract the grain so Parkland College lead fire instructor Scott Weston can be freed.

CASA says BeGrainSafe is a program designed to help save lives. In addition to firefighter training, farmers and grain handling personnel learn about grain safety best practices and develop an emergency response plan for on-site grain storage in the event of an entrapment/engulfment. The ultimate goal is to have successful rescues rather than recoveries.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

A group of Parkland College students and staff now know what to do in case of an opioid overdose. Some Adult Basic Education students in Melville took part in an information session with Saskatchewan Health Authority public health nurses, who came to their classroom Tuesday afternoon.

The session and subsequent hands-on training focused on take-home naloxone kits. Naloxone (also known by the brand name Narcan) is used to counteract overdoses caused by opioids such as morphine and fentanyl. Students learned the vital steps to help someone experiencing an opioid overdose. Several of them opted for hands-on practice with the same naloxone kits that are available at the Turning Point program in Yorkton and the Stepping Stone Wellness Clinic in Kamsack. Each kit contains two vials of naloxone and two syringes, as well as alcohol swabs, gloves, a breathing barrier mask, and instructions.

Everyone who attended the workshop received a certificate from the health authority. Students who completed the training session will now be certified to administer naloxone.

Opioids include narcotics such as heroin, morphine, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone, and codeine. People who misuse opioids (whether prescribed or obtained illegally) are at risk of overdosing, which can cause breathing to slow or stop entirely. Naloxone reverses opioid overdose, restoring breathing in a few minutes.

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, there were over 2,800 apparent opioid-related deaths across Canada in 2016, a rate of 7.9 per 100,000 population. Saskatchewan recorded 71 deaths that year. And the province has one of the highest rates of hospitalization in Canada caused by opioid poisoning.

The Government of Saskatchewan says the take-home naloxone kit program is empowering. It gives peers, friends, and families of people who use drugs the chance to save a life, sending a clear message to those who use drugs that their lives matter. In addition to the sites in Yorkton and Kamsack, take-home naloxone kits are currently available in Regina, Saskatoon, North Battleford, and Prince Albert.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

On Thursday in Yorkton, Parkland College awarded $90,900 to 74 students across the region in this spring’s Internal Scholarships. Combined with Entrance Scholarships handed out in September, Parkland College awarded more than $150,000 in the 2017-18 academic year.

This is the seventh straight year in which the College has given out more than $100,000 in scholarships. In that time, the College has awarded well over $1 million in scholarships to local learners.

These awards are made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, community members, College staff, and sponsors and participants in the annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic.

Eligible post-secondary awards are matched by funds from the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program. Funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis, as available, with local non-government donors.

Students interested in learning more about the scholarships available at Parkland College are encouraged to visit scholarships.parklandcollege.sk.ca. Entrance Scholarships for students beginning Parkland College programs this fall will be awarded in September 2018. Applications for those awards are being accepted now until May 23 at http://bit.ly/2018Entrance.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

In the month of February, Parkland College issued T2202A Tuition and Enrolment Certificates to students who had studied at the College during the 2017 tax year. Unfortunately, most of the T2202A tax slips that were mailed out last month are incomplete.

Income tax schedule changes in 2017 altered the requirements for T2202As. These slips are now required to be issued in a new format that includes an additional breakdown of tuition and months.

If all your schooling was completed prior to July 1, 2017, then your T2202A slip is likely unaffected by these changes. However, if you have taken classes before and after July 1, 2017, or took classes starting after July 1, 2017, then it is likely you will need more details and an amended T2202A to complete your income tax return.

Parkland College is currently preparing amended T2202As for all students who are affected by these changes. The College will mail these revised tax slips likely within the next two weeks. If you require a detailed breakdown of your T2202A information prior to receiving your amended copy, please email [email protected]

Important note: This does not mean that you are entitled to claim amounts on your T2202A slip. You still need to determine whether you are eligible to use it. Contact CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) if you have questions or seek advice from a tax professional.

Approximately 120 young learners attended an open house Thursday at Parkland College in Yorkton. The event helped students and their families learn more about the numerous post-secondary programs available at the College.

Staff provided guidance and offered admissions clinics, while student volunteers led visitors on tours of the Main Campus and Trades & Technology Centre and shared insight on what it’s like to take classes close to home. Representatives from the University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, and Saskatchewan Health Authority were on hand to answer questions about their respective programs and career opportunities.

Half-hour sessions were scheduled during the open house, allowing visitors to learn about application procedures, scholarships, and specific areas of study. There were also question-and-answer sessions and “Money Matters” workshops about student loans and budgets.

“A lot of our students find that our learning environment helps them make a smoother transition to post-secondary workloads and expectations,” said President Dwayne Reeve. “With smaller class sizes than those typically found at a larger institution, students can get to know their instructors and classmates. And many families find they save money by avoiding the costs associated with relocation and renting in another city.”

The application deadline for most 2018-19 programs is May 31, but seats are filling up quickly. Talk to a Parkland College counsellor to learn more about the programs you can take close to home.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Saskatchewan’s regional colleges maintained or added 4,000 jobs to the province in 2016-17 and generated over $460 million in provincial gross domestic product (GDP), according to a new economic impact assessment by Praxis Consulting.

The Regina-based management consulting firm recently released the findings of an economic impact assessment which illustrates the financial benefits derived from regional colleges in Saskatchewan. Praxis was asked to assess the economic impact of the colleges’ students, graduates, and operations on the provincial economy for the 2016-2017 school year. Impacts were assessed across four dimensions: 1) student spending while enrolled; 2) spending of salaries once students are graduated and in the workforce; 3) productivity impacts of graduates working in their fields; and, 4) college operations.

As part of the assessment, Praxis found that Parkland College contributed 461 jobs within the region in 2016-17 and more than 700 positions in the province. Parkland College also generated nearly $53 million in regional GDP ($79 million in the province).

“These statistics show the importance of Saskatchewan’s colleges to the regions in which they operate, and to the province as a whole,” said Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve. “We are proud to educate the next generation of workers and to play a key role in supporting the local and provincial economies.”

Among the other highlights in the study, Praxis found that colleges create 66 to 72 jobs per million dollars in provincial investment, which it determined is more efficient than a provincial university (56 jobs per million dollars). It also found that regional colleges generated more than $106 million in federal and provincial government revenues in 2017.

Click here to download the complete report.

Parkland College has been alerted to a serious quality issue concerning the USB memory sticks/flash drives which have been distributed to students and staff during the 2017-18 academic year.

These memory sticks are experiencing an abnormally high rate of failure, putting users at risk of losing data. Parkland College recommends that you do not use this particular memory stick to save or back-up important files.

Due to this quality concern, Parkland College will replace any USB memory stick/flash drive distributed during the 2017-18 academic year at no charge. The College will inform students and staff when a supply of replacement memory sticks becomes available.

Parkland College apologizes for any inconvenience caused by the defective memory sticks.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017. 

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The Parkland College Board of Governors announced today that President Dwayne Reeve has tendered his resignation and will step down effective July 31, 2018.

Reeve joined Parkland College in July 2015 after 30 years in the K-12 education system. During his tenure, the College set a new strategic direction, strengthened its financial position, and opened the Trades and Technology Centre in Yorkton.

“I am very thankful for the opportunity to have served as president of Parkland College. It has been a pleasure working with a group of devoted Board members and staff,” Reeve said. “I look forward to following the continued growth and development of the College as an interested community member.”

The Board reluctantly accepted Reeve’s resignation, expressing its gratitude for his leadership and vision.

“We are grateful to have benefitted from Mr. Reeve’s commitment to education and dedication to our staff and students,” said Chairperson Lydia Cyr. “We wish him the best in the next stage of his journey.”

The Board will immediately begin its search for a successor.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Nursing students truly do make a difference in the communities where they study and practice. The most recent example is the effort put forth by Yorkton nursing students, who came together to offer a variety of activities in Yorkton and Kamsack during HIV Awareness Week. Collaborating with Sunrise Health Region (now the Saskatchewan Health Authority) and Parkland College, fourth-year nursing students, led by Jillian Henry-Wilkinson, organized and hosted wonderful events that will impact the health of the entire community.

Inspired by an initiative that was previously organized by Sunrise Health Region, but due to funding difficulties was no longer able to operate, nursing students Jillian Henry-Wilkinson, Taylor Trost, Courtney Severson, Dara Yacishyn and Presley DeCock were able to bring back the availability of a condom dispensary at Parkland College’s Main Campus in Yorkton. The students hosted a pizza luncheon as a fundraiser and partnered with LifeStyles Condoms to get the pilot project off the ground. The first dispensary is set to be launched in the New Year, alongside two dispensaries donated in-kind from the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Given the nursing students are in their final year and will be graduating soon, they hope both future nursing students and students studying at Parkland College will continue to maintain the upkeep of the dispensaries going forward.

The same day the nursing students hosted the pizza lunch fundraiser, they also created an opportunity to connect students at Parkland College with health professionals. They coordinated to have public health nurses from Sunrise Health Region offer HIV and Hepatitis C testing, give flu shots, and provide access to education materials about Naloxone, a medication used to the block the effects of opioids for the prevention of drug overdose.

Educational posters were also displayed around Parkland College to bring awareness to HIV, sexually transmitted infections and contraceptives. Students were given free condoms, pamphlets providing further information and were encouraged to support community awareness of HIV through the wearing of red ribbons.

“Many students and teachers stopped by the tables to ask us, the nursing students, questions regarding the information we were providing,” said Jillian Henry-Wilkinson. “Overall, we felt the event was a huge success.”

During a clinical placement this fall, the same fourth-year nursing students were given the opportunity to work alongside New Beginnings Community Outreach Center in Kamsack. During the students’ first meeting with staff at New Beginnings, the nursing students inquired as to which donations they needed most. Without hesitation, the staff stated that food was something they always need, as they feed approximately 100 people per day. On Dec. 1, World AIDS Day, the nursing students, with help from representatives from the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing, Sunrise Health Region and New Beginnings staff, hosted a hot lunch for clients at New Beginnings. The lunch gave the nursing students the opportunity to provide food for the individuals, but also to present HIV awareness information to the community as well. The event included presentations about basic HIV information and encouraged group discussions with local peer support workers from Sunrise Health Region.

The nursing students would like to extend their thanks to the individuals who attended these HIV awareness events and made them the success they were. They hope in bringing this information forward that they have inspired participants to pass along the knowledge to others in Yorkton and surrounding communities.

“We would like to thank the University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing for supporting these student planned events that were aimed at increasing the health of our communities,” said Henry-Wilkinson. “We would also like to thank our clinical instructors, Sunrise Health Region, Parkland College and New Beginnings staff and volunteers who helped to make these events happen. And we must acknowledge Save-On-Foods in Yorkton and Prairie Grain Bakery in Kamsack for their gracious donations and LifeStyles Condoms for stocking the dispensaries when the program launches.”

This story was originally published on the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Nursing website.

About 2,000 high school students and visitors from the Parkland region attended Career Explorations 2017 at the Gallagher Centre in Yorkton on Friday. The eighth annual education and career fair attracted about 80 exhibitors from across Saskatchewan, Western Canada, and North Dakota.

Career Explorations is the largest education and job fair in East Central Saskatchewan. It is organized by Parkland College, Good Spirit School Division, and Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools.

The goal of the career fair is to provide students with many of the options available to them once they finish high school. Career Explorations puts all these options under one roof. Students and visitors were able to access information from dozens of educational institutions and companies from numerous sectors of the economy, including agriculture, construction, health, mining, public safety, and government.

Career Explorations was created from a Learning Alliance signed in 2008 between Good Spirit School Division and Parkland College. Christ the Teacher Catholic Schools has expanded its role since joining the organizing committee in 2012.

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Contact information:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator of Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

The City of Yorkton and Parkland College have signed a new lease on almost 100 acres of agriculture land near the city.

The donated land is used by the College for applied research and revenue generation. The lease includes 41 acres just south of Yorkton for the College’s research farm and 58.6 acres of hay land at the city’s west end. These parcels would otherwise be leased to a farmer for approximately $5,600 per year, according to the City.

“The City of Yorkton is pleased to offer the lands to organizations like Parkland College in support of their operations and as a revenue generation source,” said Mayor Bob Maloney.

The land is home to a long-term agriculture applied research partnership with East Central Research Foundation. The partnership enabled Parkland College to become the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program to serve regional economic development. The College also uses the research site to provide hands-on training to students enrolled in agriculture programs.

Yorkton Mayor Bob Maloney and Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve talk at the Research Farm just south of Yorkton.

“We are grateful to the City of Yorkton for its contribution to education and applied research,” said Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve. “The information our experts collect on this land is valued by the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers.”

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College awarded 18 Entrance Scholarships with a combined value of approximately $65,800 at a presentation event Tuesday in Yorkton. All students receiving Entrance Scholarships this fall are taking university, skills training, or trades programs at Parkland College.

These scholarships are made possible through the generosity of local businesses and organizations, community members, Parkland College staff, and the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation & Opportunity Scholarship (SIOS) program. SIOS is a matching program in which funds are provided on a dollar-for-dollar basis with local non-government donors. For every dollar raised locally, the province matches that dollar to support scholarships, as available.

Students interested in learning more about scholarship opportunities at Parkland College are encouraged to find out more here. Internal Scholarships for students already enrolled in Parkland College programs will be awarded in March 2018. Applications for those awards will be available to students beginning in December.

About Us:
Parkland College provides scholarships to students pursuing post-secondary education locally. Contributions to the Scholarship Initiative help Parkland College maintain the ability to contribute to the education and training of residents in the Parkland area. The initiative positively impacts the lives of individuals and families, as well as communities and businesses within the Parkland region. This is the 20th year that Parkland College has offered scholarships to its students.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Scholarship Committee Chairperson
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College marked the grand opening of the new Kamsack Training Centre on Thursday. The College moved over the summer from its former home at the Crowstand Centre to the Kamsack Shopping Plaza on First Street.

The College celebrated the opening of the new Kamsack location with a ribbon cutting and remarks from dignitaries including Canora-Pelly MLA Terry Dennis, Parkland College President Dwayne Reeve, and testimonials from students.

Parkland College student Deirdre Shingoose cuts the ceremonial ribbon to open the new training centre in Kamsack. From left to right, Canora-Pelly MLA Terry Dennis, College Board members Sally Bishop and Leonard Keshane, Deirdre Shingoose, College Board chair Lydia Cyr, Kamsack Mayor Nancy Brunt, and College President Dwayne Reeve.

“Our new home in Kamsack allows us to better meet the needs of adult learners in this area,” Reeve said. “It has a great layout and is more student-friendly, which will help enhance the learning experience here.”

The Kamsack Training Centre delivers Adult Basic Education and high school upgrading classes, along with Essential Skills training. Between 50 and 60 students are enrolled in classes at Kamsack.

Guests at the grand opening were able to tour the 4,200-square-foot facility, which includes three large classrooms, a spacious common area, and office and storage space.

“Parkland College is committed to helping our region and our province prosper,” Reeve added. “It all starts with education and training, so residents can pursue a career and build a better life.”

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College hosted an Essential Skills Day celebration Friday in Yorkton to share the importance of Essential Skills with employers and the public. The event also honoured community partners and employers who provided work placements for students.

Essential Skills Day is organized annually to raise awareness and celebrate the importance of nine Essential Skills as defined by the Government of Canada: reading, document use, numeracy, writing, oral communication, working with others, thinking, computer use, and continuous learning.

“Each of us needs a good set of Essential Skills to succeed in work and everyday life. We use them all the time,” said Gail Gorchynski, Essential Skills Consultant and Head Counsellor at Parkland College. “In order to learn a new skill or to train for a job, you need Essential Skills as a solid foundation to achieve success. Everyone benefits when Essential Skills development is emphasized.”

The benefits are particularly apparent for Canadian employers. They report that improved literacy skills result in increased retention, productivity, ability to work independently, and increased usage of new technology. Improved skills also reduce absenteeism, health and safety incidents, and error rates. Meanwhile, employees who participate in Literacy and Essential Skills programs increase their level of self-confidence, acquire new skills, are better prepared to seek promotion opportunities, and believe that they are valued by their workplaces.

For more on Essential Skills Day, please visit ABC Life Literacy. Information about Parkland College’s Essential Skills training programs can be found here.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College and East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) welcomed about 70 farmers, agriculture professionals, and industry representatives to their fifth annual research farm field day Thursday near Yorkton. The event highlights the agriculture applied research partnership between the College and ECRF, which officially began in 2013.

This summer there are numerous projects underway at the joint research farm 1 km south of Yorkton on York Lake Road. There is also a secondary site to the west along Queen Street. Researchers are conducting a variety of trials on about a dozen different crops, including canola, oats, barley, wheat, soybeans, lentils, and flax.

Parkland College and ECRF have a long-term plan to carry out agriculture research activities in the Yorkton area. The partnership enabled Parkland College to become the first regional college in Saskatchewan to undertake an applied research program to serve regional economic development. The College also uses the field research site to provide hands-on training to students enrolled in agriculture programs.

The data collected on site throughout the growing season will be shared with the research community, agricultural industry, and local producers. More information on these and other projects is available at www.ecrf.ca.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

About East Central Research Foundation:
Established in 1996, the East Central Research Foundation (ECRF) is a non-profit organization whose mandate is to conduct crop production research and extension activities for the agricultural industry of east central Saskatchewan. It is directed by a board of local producers and advised by provincial specialists.

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For more information contact:
Mike Hall
Research Coordinator
Parkland College/ECRF
Phone: 306.621.6032

The 12th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic, held Friday at Deer Park Golf Course in Yorkton, raised an estimated $19,700 for the Parkland College scholarship fund.

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is the College’s largest single scholarship fundraiser. Parkland College has now raised over $225,000 since the first tournament in 2006.

“Every year we are reminded of the generosity of the people and businesses in the Parkland region,” event organizer Brendan Wagner said. “Our golfers and sponsors are helping students who want to stay close to home to learn, hone their skills, and start their careers.”

The Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic receives support from numerous sources. Banquet sponsor R H Electric and Platinum sponsors Farrell Agencies, SaskTel, and RBC Foundation played key roles in the success of the tournament.

The College also thanks the 18 Gold Sponsors, 14 Silver sponsors, and dozens of Bronze sponsors and two hole-in-one partners for their donations of cash and prizes. A total of 107 golfers braved the inclement weather and supported the scholarship fund with their entry fees.

The 13th annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Classic is tentatively scheduled for June 22, 2018.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

Parkland College held its annual graduation ceremony Friday at the Yorkton Regional High School’s Anne Portnuff Theatre. Family, friends, and College staff congratulated and celebrated 340 students who successfully completed one of more than 20 programs offered at the College in 2016-17.

The graduates represent 50 communities. Yorkton led the way with 149 grads, followed by Kamsack with 31, Fort Qu’Appelle with 27, Melville with 23, and Regina with 13.

Parkland College offers university degrees, skills training diplomas and certificates, and Adult Basic Education upgrading. Graduates from post-secondary programs received accreditation from the University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Conestoga College, and Parkland College.

The guest speaker was Corey O’Soup, who is in his first year as Saskatchewan’s Advocate for Children and Youth. O’Soup’s remarks focused on the importance of education, especially among indigenous youth.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595

On Friday, June 9, Parkland College will celebrate the Class of 2017.

The annual graduation ceremony will honour successful student completions in numerous program areas including University, Diploma and Certificate programs, and Adult Basic Education. Graduates from post-secondary programs will receive accreditation from the University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Conestoga College, and Parkland College.

More than 300 graduates from the College’s locations in Canora, Esterhazy, Fort Qu’Appelle, Kamsack, Melville, and Yorkton will be recognized. The graduation ceremonies take place in the Anne Portnuff Theatre at Yorkton Regional High School, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

This year’s graduation will include an address from guest speaker Corey O’Soup, Saskatchewan’s Advocate for Children and Youth.

About Parkland College:
Parkland College provides high quality, learner centred education and training as a foundation for lifelong success. The College offers a superior learning and campus experience for all students through quality programming and services. Students can get started on their careers by completing university classes, full degrees, and skills training and trades certificates. Parkland College also delivers high school upgrading, safety training, and corporate/professional development. Parkland College is proud to be one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers for 2017.

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For more information contact:
Brendan Wagner
Coordinator, Corporate & Internal Engagement
Parkland College
Phone: 306.728.6595