RDC to launch Justice Studies program in fall

Red Deer Polytechnic

Published

7 years ago

4 minute read

RDC Performing Arts Centre

RDC launches Justice Studies Diploma program in September

Red Deer, May 17, 2018 – Red Deer College is proud to continue responding to the needs of our region by expanding opportunities for learners with the new Justice Studies Diploma, which will be offered starting in September 2018.

“We’re very excited to offer this program, which is the first of its kind in central Alberta and has been developed with strong support from stakeholder agencies from across the justice sector,” says Dr. Torben Andersen, Dean, School of Arts and Sciences. “Through this program, students will earn a credential that combines academic study and career-focused skills, preparing them for a wide range of employment opportunities or further education in the justice studies field.”

The two-year program includes courses delving into a range of topics, such as the Canadian justice system, the complex origins of crime and criminal behaviour, communication and conflict resolution, and many more. Students will also gain valuable experience through a practicum, which takes place in their second year.

The unique Diploma will benefit learners in many ways.

“This program will emphasize knowledge and understanding of Indigenous peoples and their experiences with the justice system,” Andersen explains. “This is in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s call to action, and we’ve developed the program so that Indigenous perspectives will be threaded through all courses.”

With the diverse courses and learning opportunities in the program, the Justice Studies Diploma is an exciting addition to the breadth of programming offered at Red Deer College.

“As RDC evolves into a comprehensive regional teaching university, we will continue to pursue programs and opportunities that will benefit students, organizations and partners from across central Alberta,” says Dr. Paulette Hanna, Vice President Academic. “The growth and evolution that RDC is experiencing is the result of many years of planning and collaboration. This new program is another great example of this work, as it fills a unique niche in our region and will provide students with a starting place for a wide variety of rewarding careers in the justice sector.”

Registration is now open for the Justice Studies Diploma, and applications for the program will continue to be accepted until the Fall term begins or until the program is filled.

Further details about the Justice Studies Diploma are available on RDC’s website.

About the Red Deer College School of Arts and Sciences program:

The School of Arts and Sciences offers programs that lead students to successful and rewarding careers, as well as opportunities for further education. The School offers diploma, university transfer and collaborative degree programs, with individual courses in 25 different subject areas, providing students with the flexibility to tailor their pathways to their passions and goals. Expert instructors provide students with academically challenging, highly-supportive and engaging learning experiences.

About RDC:

For 54 years, RDC has been proudly serving our learners and our communities. RDC offers more than 100 different programs (including full degrees, certificates, diplomas and skilled trades programs) to 7,500 full- and part-time credit students and more than 36,000 youth and adult learners in the School of Continuing Education each year. Named by Alberta Venture magazine as one of Alberta’s most innovative organizations for the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing, RDC is a key location for applied and industry-led research. Our main campus is strategically situated on 290 acres of Alberta’s natural landscape along Queen Elizabeth II Highway. We have also expanded our learning and performing arts space into the heart of downtown Red Deer through our Welikoklad Event Centre and the Donald School of Business.

Red Deer Polytechnic

www.rdpolytech.ca

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Our sweetest success yet: Smile Cookie Campaign breaks record

Published on June 11, 2025

Red Deer Public Schools

Just when we thought our smiles couldn’t get any bigger – they did! And we have the Red Deer community to thank for their overwhelming support.

We are so excited to share the total from the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign this past spring…and it’s very impressive. In fact, it’s an all-time record, and we couldn’t be more grateful.

Over the long-week campaign held April 28-May 4, Red Deerians indulged in a lot of cookies – $80,773 worth! These funds will go directly to helping struggling readers become readers of potential through Reading College, a project of The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools.

Reading College, held each July, provides students with identified reading gaps an incredible summer experience that builds their skills, confidence, and love for reading. Students leave the program with stronger reading and writing abilities, and a solid foundation for success in school and life. Now in its 14th year, 1,000 students have graduated from Reading College.

“We continue to be amazed by the generosity of our community and the partnership with Tim Hortons,” said Kristine Plastow, Board Chair for The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools. “These dollars directly impact kids who need extra support to become confident readers. The difference this program makes is life-changing.”

Tanya Doucette, Tim Hortons Restaurant Owner in Red Deer, said it’s incredible to see what can happen when a community comes together. The simple act of purchasing a cookie by so many amazing guests, makes a huge difference for young students right here in Red Deer.

“This record-breaking year shows how much our guests care. We are so pleased to support Reading College and help give students the tools they need to thrive,” she said.

Red Deer

Red Deer Student honoured with Chief Youth Courage Award

Published on June 10, 2025

Red Deer Public Schools

When you meet Brayden Chenier, a Grade 8 student at GH Dawe School, it’s clear why he’s been chosen to represent youth across Alberta. Brayden is the proud recipient of the Integrated School Support Program Provincial (ISSP) Chief Youth Courage Award, presented by the Calgary Police Youth Foundation, in recognition of his resilience, leadership and commitment to his community.

The award celebrates students who demonstrate courage and dedication to becoming a responsible and caring citizen, especially within a diverse school and community, and was presented earlier this spring at the Calgary Police Awards Gala. As part of the honour, Brayden will now serve as a youth ambassador, helping to raise awareness about child and youth crime prevention, education, and intervention programs across the province.

“It’s pretty surreal that I will be all over the province for a year,” said Brayden. “I am looking forward to helping out in the community.”

Brayden has been part of the ISSP program through GH Dawe School since 2023 and has benefited greatly from the support offered.

With the support of the mental health professional, Brayden has been able to successfully navigate a variety of challenges in his life including coming to terms with his disability and navigating a tragic loss in his life.

Born with clubfoot, Brayden has never let his physical disability stand in his way. He is an avid athlete in a number of sports including hockey, basketball, golf, track, volleyball and soccer. His goal is working towards becoming an athlete in the Paralympics.

Brayden was nominated by GH Dawe School Counsellor Amy Johansson, who described him as a compassionate, kind, hardworking, and honest person who is driven and motivated to be his very best at all that he attempts.

She added that within the GH Dawe School community, Brayden is a highly respected citizen by all students and staff. “He is highly committed to sports connected to our school, as well as sports outside of our school community. Brayden works diligently at his academics. And is so very helpful and caring, always. Brayden works to overcome a list of things that he will not allow to hold him back.”

GH Dawe School is part of Alberta’s Integrated School Support Program – a child wellness initiative aimed at improving academic performance and the overall well-being of students. The program supports schools like GH Dawe with services to meet the diverse needs of students and families.

As he takes on his role as a provincial ambassador, Brayden continues to be a role model for his peers and a reminder of the power of perseverance and community support.