Welcome to this years credit course program!

The CEC believes it is important that parents/guardians bring their student to the summer program (as this helps ease nervousness and supports the check-in process), but we do understand that it may be difficult for families to get to the CEC for check-in and/or pick-up.

Please reach out to us if you are stuck and need help.  We will send out a group email to the applicable session to see if anyone coming from your area may be able to help.

At the end of each session and when the student completes the credit, the final marks for each student are submitted to the Near North District School Board (NNDSB). 

The final report card will be EMAILED to your son/daughter’s home school (guidance counselor as indicated on your application) AND a copy will be EMAILED to your main contact person (as indicated on your initial application) near the end of the summer. 

Home schools can request an original copy to be mailed to the school once they have received the email copy.

Please contact your child’s home school by mid to late September to ensure they have received the report card.  It is the responsibility of each student’s home school to add the course and final marks to each student’s official transcript.  The NNDSB does not produce transcripts, only report cards.

Please make sure you have completed all the Secondary Online Forms by SUNDAY June 8^th.

• Log into the online registration system: https://canadianecology.campbrainregistration.com/
• Scroll down and under View My Registrations, choose Highschool Credit Courses 2025 and click View Details.
• Scroll down and under Forms, choose the to be completed forms.

Email and Password are the same that you used to create your account when registering for the course. If you can’t remember your password, choose password reset. 

All students WITH at least 1 parent/guardian in attendance (together) is required to attend a pre-course meeting prior to attending the course. Attendance will be taken.

Please select the appropriate date/time to attend in the Secondary Registration forms.  A Zoom link will be sent on the day of the call.

A reminder of the dates/times are below.

NEW STUDENTS – This will be a 30-40min presentation to go over the arrival details, packing for “camp”, CEC rules, safety protocols and meet some staff/teachers. Time will be set-aside for questions at the end of each session. Returning students can sign-up for this session if wanting a more fulsome review.

RETURNING STUDENTS – This will be a shorter 15 min presentation to provide some important reminders and go over anything that is new for this year. New Students attending the CEC for the first time are not able to sign up for this shorter session.

• NEW or Returning Students – Tuesday June 17th at 7pm (30-40 min)
• NEW or Returning Students – Thursday June 19th at 7pm (30-40 min)
• RETURNING Students ONLY – Tuesday June 17th at 8pm (15-20 min)
• RETURNING Students ONLY – Thursday June 19th at 8pm (15-20 min)

If you cannot attend, a video link will be shared (following the June 19th session).  It is expected that all students/guardians watch it and reach out with any further questions.

Students will be given opportunities to contact home throughout the session.  If you need to get a hold of your child or the CEC, please see the Contact Information link above.

Please do not send any care packages via mail.  If you were intending to send a care package, we kindly ask that you prepare it ahead of time and bring it with you upon arrival.  We can hand out mail/packages ONCE, approximately halfway through the session.

We will not be doing frequent checks at our local post office so please send any letters earlier in the session.  Please include Attention to: Student Name and Course 

No, it is not permitted as there is limited time to complete the course and visits can provide unnecessary distractions to both your own student as well as others. 

Please contact us if there are special circumstances where a visit may be required.

Electronically Freed (sort of)!: As society continuously immerses us (children and adults) into a digital world, the CEC feels that it is important to take moments to put the electronics away and “be in the moment”.  Students will have occasional access to their technology in the classroom (not in the cabins) during the session for both learning needs and communicating with home.  Our focus is on learning “live” and nurturing our abilities to socialize and communicate in-person!  It will be a nice break for everyone from being attached to these devices on a daily basis…and it’s only for a few weeks!

Students are welcome to bring their own personal laptops/tablets or device if you prefer. A USB memory stick may also be useful (although these are not required).  The NNDSB provides classroom iPads which are shared during the course.

Personal phones are also permitted during permitted times and for class use only and must also be turned in upon check-in on arrival day.  For a detailed list of permitted and non–permitted electronic item please review the Equipment List and Rules and Expectations download file above.

We offer a technology “freed” program…most of the time. Students are NOT permitted to have any personal technologies with or on them during the session (aside from when they might be used for classroom activities) and NEVER at their cabins. 

For students who like to listen to music at night or require white sounds to fall asleep, we encourage you to create “new” nighttime strategies well in advance of attending.  Some suggestions might be using a fan or buying a white noise machine (similar to what you might have in a babies room), or finding an old school music device (ie.MP3 player) that you can download music onto (but no cell/internet connection)

The CEC believes in the value of “disconnecting” from technology and “re-connecting” with face-to-face social interaction and play…something that is hard to do in our electronically minded society. This is a positive experience and something that you can discuss with your child prior to attending the program. At the same time, we recognize that technology has tremendous benefits (but there is a time and place for it)

Although we make use of technology and computers in the classroom environment, students are not permitted to have any items that can connect to WiFi on them; such as IPods/IPads, E-books, cell-phones, gaming systems, computers (unless required for learning), etc…etc…etc… These items would be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the course if found. Don’t bother asking folks…even if you dismantle the WiFi connection somehow…you still can’t have them on you! 

There is a process to sign-in/sign-out these technologies if they are brought to the CEC (at given times only). Please keep in mind that the CEC is NOT responsible for ANY damages, lost, stolen or broken technologies brought to the CEC.  If you don’t need it…don’t bring it!

Students are permitted to bring digital cameras and CD’s to play in a small portable stereo, as well as having access to CEC computers and phones for personal communication. More details of what can be brought to camp will be outlined in the secondary information package. Each cabin has a clock radio! Just think of the great local music stations your child will be able to dial into! 

Every few nights, there is a designated “techie-time” allowed (usually around the dinner hour). Students are permitted at this time to sign-out their personal cell-phones if they brought them. CEC computers are available for checking email and CEC phones are available for home communication. 

Okay parents…don’t worry! Even if your child doesn’t have their phone on them, it’s okay! You can always contact us to speak to your child…and they will be okay! The CEC keeps in communication with you and updates will be posted on social media (Facebook).  A little bit of electronic disconnect between you and your child is good for you too. Just think, you are helping them become independent, a life skill we all want for our children!

Oh…and we take LOTS of photos so you’ll be able to check those out on both our CEC and CEC-High School Credit Courses Facebook Pages

Each residence is equipped with a shower and washroom facilities, sink, small fridge, clock radio and alarm. 

Bedding and Pillows are provided (you do not need to bring your own) BUT you will need to bring your own bath/hair/face towels.  Students are also required to bring their own hand soap and personal hand sanitizers. Please reference the equipment list (see above download link) for items you will want to bring for the cabin.

Yes, but please remember: ABSOLUTELY NO peanut/tree nut products are permitted on site (even in your cabin).  Please store food in a sealed storage bin to avoid attracting critters.  A small fridge is available, but between 3 people, it would not hold much.  It is suggested to bring food that doesn’t require refrigeration, heating or creates a ton of mess

 NO kitchen or hair styling appliances (hot plates, cooking devices, toasters, panini makers, hair irons, etc..) will be allowed in any cabins (as these are fire hazards).  ONLY an auto-off kettle will be allowed.

Yes, our water is safe!  Our water is from a well, is treated on-site with chlorine, and a UV Filter and is frequently tested.  Students are required to bring 1-2 reusable water bottles. The CEC does not sell bottled water. Water bottle filling stations are provided around the site.

We try to incorporate as many outdoor activities into the course curriculum as possible, including; hiking, swimming, and canoeing.  It is not required that students be proficient in or have any experience in these activities.  The CEC will ensure the safety of all students and will plan activities to suit students’ abilities and comfort levels accordingly.

Many outdoor, interactive and experiential components are included as part of the course. These include opportunities for students to interact socially with others within their own class as well as students in other classes at the same time. Often during meal times or at the end of the night, special activities will be planned for students to interact outside of a “classroom learning environment” (ie. Group games/challenges, group picnic, campfires, basketball, Frisbee, crafts, music lessons, etc…). 

New this summer will be a mid-way celebration! “Freaky, Fancy, Funny, Feast!” (see equipment list for details), as well as the return of the all camp Olympics! 

Students will be outside often for class and should be prepared for bugs.  Bug jackets/hats, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding perfumes and smelly soaps/shampoos, will all help to deter mosquitoes and blackflies.  The more exposed skin you have…the more you will get bitten!  Keep this in mind when planning your wardrobe…short shorts often lead to very uncomfortable bug bites in places you don’t want to be scratching!

Concerns about Ticks and Lyme Disease: https://www.ontario.ca/page/lyme-disease

The CEC has procedures/policies for minimizing the risk of getting a tick as well as what to do if a student should discover a tick attached to them.  Here are some personal protection measures that you can use for yourself at home as well as during the credits.

 Wear appropriate clothing (light coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants, as well as tucking shirts into pants and pants into socks during hikes)

Use insect repellents – Products containing Deet (less effective) and/or Icaridin (more effective) can be applied on clothing (doesn’t have to be on skin if wearing long pants and sleeves).

Tick checks – students should check themselves for ticks (after hikes, while showering, washroom breaks and/or before bed).

Open and honest communication is key!  We encourage all students to advocate for themselves, (either verbally or written) any time they are having difficulties in class, adjusting to CEC life, problems with peers and/or class mates, or any other issue that arises.  Our teachers and staff jump into many roles (always remaining professional) besides the typical “teacher” role (parent, counselor, etc…).  They are all more than willing and happy to deal with any situation and truly want to make your child’s experience as positive and successful as possible.  A “talk-box” is also available for students who want to remain confidential or just want to share a suggestion.

Our teachers spend a great deal of time helping and encouraging students to succeed.  Our goal is to create a positive and motivating learning environment.  Many students find their marks actually increase during the summer credit courses and they enjoy learning!  If you have concerns, we welcome a call or email anytime.

The intensive multi-day format and hands-on approach to learning is often beneficial for students who may have mild learning disabilities or require learning/assessment modifications (with our without an IEP). We incorporate a variety of teaching styles throughout the program to address the learning needs of all our students. Due to the nature of studying a subject matter intensively day to day and demonstrating real life applications and connections, students are most often very successful in our programs, despite any learning exceptionalities they may have. We do our best, but again…students need to advocate for themselves when they need extra help. Please contact us if you are unsure if this is the right experience for your child.

Summative assessments are part of each course.  Your child will be completing a variety of coursework including project-based assignments. We try to make our assessments fun and interesting by incorporating written components, verbal and hands-on questions as well.  You’ll be excited to know that all/any of our written exams are open book…with a stronger emphasis on applying the knowledge learned.  Teachers will help students to organize their notes throughout their course…a valuable skill for future credits!  More often than not…teachers on site prefer more project based final assessment methods, rather than exams.

It may seem like an odd request to ask your student, who is a young adult to NOT administer any medications to themselves but the reason for doing this is to ensure the health and safety of all our students at all times.  This includes everything from being aware that a student has a headache (often a first sign of dehydration or other illness), to ensuring that students are not sharing their prescription or non-prescription medications (which could result in serious health effects).  If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the CEC.

Exceptions may be made for medications that are of personal/sensitive in nature (ie. Birth control, personal creams, etc…) or medication (ie. Epi-pens, inhalers,etc..) that are lifesaving devices.

We will be providing more details on how to bring/label these items in separate email.

We have a no smoking no vaping policy for all students while attending the summer credit courses (this includes electronic smoking devices, cannabis, e-vaps, nicotine pouches – zonnic, etc…).  If your student is a smoker/vapor, the CEC recommends that you begin a stop-smoking program well in advance to the start of the credit course.  Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions in regards to this policy and how we can help support your child.

The CEC has a detailed emergency plan to deal with any situation (including outbreaks, emerging weather etc).  Staff and teachers are trained in the CEC’s policies and procedures.  Safety of our students and clients is top priority and you can be assured that all necessary steps and actions will be taken in the event of any emergency.  Please feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions. 

We believe a quality educational experience includes a multitude of resources and support networks. Qualified teachers/educators are hired to teach for each course, providing more opportunities for students to learn as well as an increased support network in the classroom. The CEC also hires “Outdoor Recreation Staff” who fill a variety of resource/support roles during each session (many are even teachers themselves). They are available to help out in the classrooms as needed, assist with day/evening supervision, planning of social activities and to lead the outdoor activities/skills components of the courses (ie. Canoeing, swimming, camping, etc…). They are also available to provide additional support for students who may want or need to talk to someone during their stay. 

Both the teachers and the Recreation Staff live on-site (in nearby cabins) and are available 24 hrs a day for the duration of each session.  Additional staff are available during the course to assist as needed, including the CEC Camp Coordinator and Camp Director (Director of Education), as well as our main office staff.  Although we do our best to recognize potential situations or issues, it is not always easy given the short and intensive time frame of the courses. 

Students should know that they have a variety of individuals available to them should they need help or support in dealing with any situation (ie. Homesickness, anxiety, social issues, etc…) and should seek out these resource people as needed. It is important that students can self-advocate for their own needs or others and need to be able to ask for help when required as stated above. Students also have access to a confidential “talk-box” (that is checked daily) to share questions, comments or concerns.

No it is not required. Students will have an opportunity to visit our “store/tuck-shop” on occasion during their session if they want.  We are using a “Store Tab” model again this year where your child’s purchases will be charged to your credit card on file with us.  You can give permission to create a STORE TAB for your child in the online registration forms.  Typical items in the store include; candy/chocolate, chips, pop and juice, books, souvenir items (stuffed animals, books, jewelery, clothing, etc…).  We will not be using cash, debit or credit in the tuck shop.

The Canadian Ecology Centre is open to discussing any situation with you and how we might accommodate, welcome, support and/or provide adaptation to our program to meet your child’s needs. Whether the nature is religious, cultural, gender, personal or whatever the situation…we are happy to meet with you. Given consideration to any limitations we might have to site, staff and resources, the CEC will do our best to create a welcoming open dialogue to come up with a solution together.

Please read the Equipment List and CEC Rules and Expectations (see above links) for information on what is permitted and what you should not bring to the CEC.  If you are unsure, please do not hesitate to contact the CEC.  Please leave all valuables at home. The CEC is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal items including any technology.

The CEC works closely with our local health unit, school board and a supporting Nurse Pracitioner (via virtual appointments) for support/guidance with any medical and/or illness situation.

Although we have resumed to post-pandemic levels of activities, COVID-19 and other illnesses (including the current and contagious measles outbreaks across the Province) are still circulating in our communities and are still causing severe illness in some individuals. (especially with those who are immunocompromised, not fully vaccinated  and/or have ongoing medical health issues/conditions).

With direction and guidance from our current Health Care team, the following recommendations are encouraged:

Everyone is encouraged to be fully up to date with any/all vaccinations and reach out to your personal health care provider for any questions you may have.

Vaccination is one tool to help ensure your own personal safety and those around you, but it does not mean that you cannot carry/transmit or become infected again with a virus.  It is not a 100% safety guarantee but it is one tool we have to help protect everyone.

Masking and/or isolation and/or cancellation of the program may be required (under direction from the CEC management team and/or our local health unit) to avoid the spread of illness/disease.

Continue to follow the current Local and/or Provincial guidelines.

For our local North Bay and Parry Sound District Health units advice regarding the ongoing measles outbreak in our Province and in the area please visit:

https://www.myhealthunit.ca/en/health-topics/measles.aspx

In the unfortunate event that a cohort class must leave the CEC, we are still committed to providing a remote learning experience to allow your child to earn their credit.  Every attempt would be made to complete the credit during the scheduled time frame.  Our teaching team (separate from the NNDSB teacher) would remain employed to provide daily and ongoing support for students throughout the day.

There will NOT be any pre-ordering of clothing this summer.  Students can purchase items while on site using their store tab.  A vareity of clothing items/sizes will be avaialble.

This is not required, but the following OPTIONAL links are included for any students who might like to review some curricular materials prior to attending.

Not a requirement at all, but might be helpful for some students who maybe haven’t had science in awhile and would like to know what material from the prerequisite course might be useful to review.  A great resource for the school year as well.

https://www.ontario.ca/page/key-learning-students-taking-grade-9-courses – for students taking CGC 1W 

https://www.ontario.ca/page/key-learning-students-taking-grade-10-courses – for students taking SNC 2D

https://www.ontario.ca/page/key-learning-students-taking-grade-11-courses – for students taking SBI 3U

https://www.ontario.ca/page/key-learning-students-taking-grade-12-courses – for students taking SBI 4U / SES 4U