photo of Model School Graduate Brandon Murdock
WINNIPEG, MB –The University of Winnipeg’s Model School celebrates the completion of its fourth year with continued success. Since its inception in 2008, 22 students have graduated, each overcoming barriers that could have impeded the realization of their full potential. The mutual commitment of educators and students has resulted in an exceptional graduation rate of 98%, while providing inner-city students an excellent education coupled with the motivation to excel.
Model School student Brandon Murdock graduated in May 2012, completing his grade 11 and 12 at the Collegiate. “I loved it,” describes Murdock. “It is a great program that gives kids like me, from the inner-city, a chance for an education that was never an option before. The teachers gave me the support I need, and now I am looking forward to going to UWinnipeg thanks to their continued support.”
“We are proud of our Model Students, like Brandon, and of their success rate,” expressed Gerri Zacharias, Model School Director. ”Thirteen of our students are continuing their studies at universities, including at UWinnipeg and University of Toronto. The remaining students have found employment — which would not have been possible without completion of their high school education.”
The Model School began as a pilot project in 2008. It was part of The University of Winnipeg’s broader community learning mandate to support Grade 9-12 students who show potential and who need a different kind of learning environment. Many of the students are of First Nations, Métis, and new Canadians.
Model School students receive a full scholarship and are integrated into UWinnipeg Collegiate classes, where they work towards a Manitoba High School Diploma. Costs for transportation, nutrition, registration and supplies are all included in the scholarship. Potential candidates are identified and referred by administrators at local public schools or may be nominated by non-profit organizations such as Big Brothers & Big Sisters.
Model School students also earn tuition credits through UWinnipeg’s Opportunity Fund. The “earn as you learn” approach rewards students for completing each school year, improving their marks, and for participating in extra-curricular activities in their communities. The goal of all community learning initiatives is to break down the barriers to post-secondary education and provide academic opportunities for students, regardless of socio-economic background.
Brandon Murdock Bio
Brandon Murdock lives in Winnipeg and is a member of Fisher River Cree Nation. He is the first member of his family to receive a High School Diploma, which he earned from The University of Winnipeg Collegiate Model School this past May.
Brandon is a gifted athlete, excelling in soccer and basketball. In the last three years he has finished in the top 20 for all of Manitoba in basketball and has been recruited to play for the UWinnipeg Wesmen team while working towards a Bachelor of Arts in Justice and Law Enforcement degree, beginning this fall.
In addition to his busy athletic schedule, Brandon has successfully managed his academics and still finds time to work with the community through Pathways. He will be working with Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs this summer.
Over the last several years, Brandon has “earned as he learned,” and now has $1,350 in tuition credits to apply to his university expenses, via UWinnipeg’s Opportunity Fund. Brandon hopes to become a member of the Winnipeg Police Service and return to the North End of Winnipeg to serve the community.
For information on UWinnipeg’s Model School please contact Gerri Zacharias, Director – Model School at g.zacharias@uwinnipeg.ca.
