Students, teachers rally to save ‘unique’ City School in Hamilton, once pitched as a model to other cities

Heather Kennedy, a 52-year-old student, had found hope in Mohawk College’s City School program as a way to improve her skills and increase her earning potential to support her family. She had aspirations of becoming an administrator and was taking advantage of the free courses offered through the program to work towards her goal. However, with the recent announcement of the closure of City School as part of broader cuts at the college, Kennedy’s dreams are now uncertain.

Kennedy, who works as a caretaker, recognized the importance of furthering her education in a time where the cost of living continues to rise. She had enrolled in courses through City School in the hopes of gaining new skills and securing a better job in a non-profit organization. The closure of the program has left her feeling disappointed and worried about her future prospects.

In response to the closure, Kennedy joined a group of individuals in a rally outside of Mohawk College to protest the cuts and advocate for the continuation of City School. The program, which offers free post-secondary and employment-pathway courses to adults in the community, has been a valuable resource for many individuals like Kennedy who are looking to improve their lives and contribute more to their families.

The closure of City School has not only impacted Kennedy but has also sparked a community-wide response. A petition started by program partners has garnered hundreds of signatures from community members and organizations calling for the college to reconsider its decision. Erin Carr, executive director of the Solidarity Place Worker Education Centre, emphasized the importance of City School as a free and accessible education option that is sorely lacking in the province.

With over 400 students enrolled in City School last year and a network of dedicated instructors and staff, the program has been a beacon of opportunity for many individuals seeking to better themselves. Sarah Bradshaw, a training specialist at Mohawk College and part-time instructor at City School, highlighted the unique role that the program plays in bridging the gap between the community and the college.

Despite the challenges faced by City School, there is a strong sense of resilience and determination among its supporters. Instructors like Jess Robertson and Erin Carr have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of the program on its students. They have seen individuals from all walks of life come together in pursuit of education, skill-building, and personal growth.

While the closure of City School is a significant loss for the Hamilton community, there is hope that the program’s legacy will endure. The success of City School has inspired partnerships with colleges in other cities, demonstrating the potential for its model to be replicated and expanded. As the community continues to advocate for the program’s survival, there is a shared commitment to ensuring that the spirit of City School lives on and continues to empower individuals to reach their full potential.