The semi-annual system
The Satellites Catholic High School uses a two-semester system. The school year is divided into two equal parts, and students take half (4) of their courses for the year each semester. The first semester runs from September through the end of January, and the second semester runs from February through the end of June.
To meet the Department of Education's requirement for full credit, each regular course is eighty (80) minutes in length per day.
Thanks to its hybrid model, the school offers a unique learning experience: theoretical courses are taught in a virtual classroom, while hands-on learning takes place during field trips.
The teacher is available online or in person, while a support staff member is on site to welcome students and assist them with their learning.
Students can also take advantage of courses offered by the Ontario French-Language Virtual Learning Consortium (CAVLFO) and numerous outdoor activities organized throughout the year to enrich their educational experience.
Students are enrolled in the following schools:
The Enfant-Jésus Catholic School in Dryden and a building dedicated to Sioux North High School, operated by the Keewatin-Patricia District School Board in Sioux Lookout.
Advantages of the semi-annual system
The semester system offers several benefits to the student. A longer period allows for more effective teaching and learning experiences because:
- It gives teachers the opportunity to get to know the student better and to help them on an individual basis with their particular learning problems;
- It allows the student to take a more active role in the learning process and to complete course work in subjects such as science, art, physical education and health;
- it gives the student the opportunity to concentrate better, as fewer subjects are taken at the same time;
- It increases motivation as the student is assessed more frequently for short periods of time and receives a full assessment (exams and performance) twice in five months;
- it improves attendance, as the student is aware of the importance of being present for each day of class during the semester;
- This reduces the breaks between each class compared to eight class days, making the learning process more intensive;
- It improves interaction and social development among students, as they are together longer.
