The Grand Erie District School Board is excited to launch the first artificial intelligence micro-credential in Ontario's public education sector, developed in partnership with Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning.
"This micro-credential shows how Grand Erie is leading with innovation, supporting staff growth, and ensuring high-quality, relevant professional learning is available in today's rapidly changing education landscape," says JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education with Grand Erie. "This course reflects the diverse roles in our system and offers tailored content that speaks directly to each employee's unique responsibilities."
The AI micro-credential is a voluntary, asynchronous, 10-hour online course available to all Grand Erie employees beginning in September. Course topics include the basics of AI, tools and responsible use, the ethics of AI, and custom AI pathways for academic employees, administrators and non-teaching employees.
"Our partnership with Grand Erie reflects our shared commitment in preparing today's workforce for tomorrow's challenges," says John Tibbits, President of Conestoga College. "By making AI education more accessible, we're investing in our education system and ensuring it evolves alongside the technologies shaping our world."
The micro-credential was developed in partnership with Conestoga College and shaped by Grand Erie staff to reflect the Board's multi-year strategic plan, and annual learning and operating plans, and workplace realities.
All Grand Erie participants who successfully complete the course will receive a certificate of completion from Grand Erie and Conestoga College. The micro-credential follows the release of an AI policy and procedure, and guidelines for the school community, along with ongoing professional learning for all employees.
Notes Roberto, "AI will continue to shape the future of work and learning, and staff must be equipped with tools and knowledge to navigate these changes to support students in the classroom and career planning. I want to recognize the partnership with Dr. John Tibbits, Dr. Paula Gouveia, Vice President of Academic with Conestoga College, and Lisa Munro, Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement with Grand Erie, and Lynn Thomas, Consultant for eLearning with Grand Erie, championing the learning opportunity on behalf of Grand Erie."
