Media Release from Lakehead Public Schools:
Lakehead Public Schools to launch LPS Edge, partnership with Thunder Bay Kings Hockey Club
THUNDER BAY, ON – Lakehead Public Schools is pleased to announce its elite LPS Edge: Excellence in Hockey and Academics skills academy. Beginning in September, students entering Grade 9 will have the opportunity to take part in an innovative pilot project that will see them build on their hockey skills while still having the ability to receive the top-shelf secondary school education Lakehead Public Schools offers.
“This pilot program is the latest in a number of pathways to graduation Lakehead Public Schools continues to offer for students who want to focus on their passion and specialized skills without sacrificing a quality, well-rounded education,” said Lakehead Public Schools Director of Education Sherri-Lynne Pharand.
“LPS Edge will allow students to reach their full potential both on the ice and off academically in a safe, supervised environment and we know the program will be as successful as the achievements of the students participating.” The pilot program will be offered to a total of 60 co-ed students entering Grade 9 who already have significant experience in the hockey community. Eligible students will participate in a total of 80 to 100 hours of on-ice instruction with some of Thunder Bay’s best hockey skills coaches thanks to a partnership with the Thunder Bay Kings (a member of Thunder Bay Minor Hockey Association) along with qualified Lakehead Public Schools educators. On-ice learning, along with skills development and strength conditioning, will count as two Physical Education credits toward an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, the rest of the credits will be taken in a conventional classroom setting at either Hammarskjold High School or Westgate CVI. Students will still be able to take advantage of the full slate of programming, education, sports and activities offered by Lakehead Public Schools.
“The Thunder Bay Kings are very excited to partner with LPS in offering the on-ice instruction component of the LPS Edge: Excellence in Hockey and Academics. It is so important to provide students with opportunities to focus on their sport of choice, allowing them to hone their skills to reach their hockey dreams,” said Thunder Bay Kings’ president Brent Rau.
While initially a pilot program for Grade 9 students entering the 2025/26 academic year, Lakehead Public Schools plans to continue the program to offer a complete LPS Edge experience throughout a student’s entire high school journey at Lakehead Public Schools.
Space will be very limited for the first year of this pilot program. More information on how to apply will be provided to schools soon.
