Opening doors to postsecondary pathways for our students
The Kenora Catholic District School Board is proud to be part of the Lakehead University Achievement Program, an early-access initiative that supports students in exploring their strengths, building confidence, and experiencing new learning opportunities connected to postsecondary education.
Our Participation
KCDSB joined the Achievement Program family in 2025 with ten Grade 4 students from St. John Paul II School. These students are the first from our board to take part, and we hope to see continued opportunities for our students as the program grows at KCDSB.
On November 21, 2025, KCDSB and Lakehead University formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding during a virtual celebration. Students, families, educators, and Elders gathered at St. John Paul II School in Kenora, while Lakehead University representatives joined from Thunder Bay. The event highlighted community, culture, and the shared commitment to supporting students as they grow.
About the Program
Beginning in Grade 4, students take part in yearly activities that help them learn, grow, and stay connected to their school and community. These activities focus on recreation, academics, community involvement, and personal development, and are designed to help students build positive habits, explore new interests, and experience what learning beyond high school can look like.
As students move through school, they earn credits in the program by passing their grades and participating in activities at home, in their community, and with Lakehead University. By the time they graduate, students will have earned financial support that can be used toward their first year of tuition and other required fees at Lakehead University or other education-related expenses.
The Achievement Program currently supports about 500 students across six school boards and 45 schools. In May 2025, the program celebrated an exciting milestone with its first two Lakehead University graduates in the fields of Business and Nursing, with more participants currently attending Lakehead.
Why It Matters
This partnership creates meaningful opportunities for young learners to experience life on a university campus, explore their interests, and imagine future pathways. The program supports students as they grow, learn, and dream about what comes next.
Learn More
To explore full details of the Achievement Program, visit Lakehead University’s website:
https://www.lakeheadu.ca/about/presidents-office/achievement-program
