Wolf Creek Public Schools has formalized a new partnership with Metrax Indigenous Corporation aimed at expanding access to skilled trades programming for Indigenous students and removing transportation barriers that often limit participation.
On Jan. 12, division leaders and members of the Education Services team, along with two WCPS Elders, met with representatives from Metrax Indigenous to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see a portable welding lab established at Ponoka Secondary Campus. The agreement will support on-site welding programming delivered by an Indigenous instructor, creating a locally accessible pathway into the trades.
The day began with a brief meeting at the division office before participants travelled to Maskwacis for a sweat ceremony, followed by a shared meal and further discussions, all prior to the formal signing.
Superintendent of Schools Tim De Ruyck said the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to both reconciliation and student success.
"This agreement is about more than a single program," De Ruyck said. "It is about creating meaningful, culturally respectful pathways that allow students to see themselves in the work they are doing and in the futures they are building. By bringing this programming directly to Ponoka Secondary Campus, we are removing barriers and opening doors."
While WCPS already offers robust dual credit and career pathway programming, transportation has remained a significant obstacle for some students. Locating the portable welding lab directly at the school is expected to improve participation and retention.
"Access matters," De Ruyck said. "When students can learn close to home, with instructors who understand shared culture and community, the likelihood of engagement and success increases dramatically. This partnership has the potential to grow into other areas of skilled trades and applied learning across the division."
In addition to the signing, Ponoka Secondary Campus student Kyson Samson received support from a range of funding sources to help offset the cost of an upcoming school trip to Spain, with a contribution from Metrax Indigenous, provided in partnership with The Rotary Club, playing a key role in making his participation possible.
Hermann Logsend, Executive Director of Metrax Indigenous Corporation, said the day was about connection, mentorship, and long-term impact.
"Our mission is to make a difference in the life of the individual, the family, and the community," Logsend said. "Today was a time to connect spiritually, to learn from one another, and to commit to working hand in hand with Wolf Creek Public Schools to create real career opportunities for Indigenous youth."
Logsend said supporting Samson's trip to Spain was part of encouraging students to dream beyond their current circumstances.
"We told Kyson to dream big, to not be afraid of the next step, and to embrace the cultures he will learn from," he said. "But just as importantly, to come back and share what he learns with his brother, his community, and his school."
The MOU also outlines a shared commitment to explore future programming in areas such as carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and landscaping, creating a broader network of career pathways for Indigenous students both in and out of school.
"This is the beginning, not the end," De Ruyck said. "By working together with Metrax Indigenous, Elders, and community partners, we can continue building programs that are relevant, accessible, and life-changing for our students."
