The Grand Erie District School Board is launching Ontario’s first artificial intelligence (AI) micro-credential in the public education sector, developed in collaboration with Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning.
The voluntary, 10-hour asynchronous online course will be available to all Grand Erie employees starting in September. It will cover core topics such as the fundamentals of AI, tools and responsible use, AI ethics, and customized modules tailored to academic staff, administrators, and non-teaching roles.
“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,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education at Grand Erie.
Participants who complete the course will receive a joint certificate from Grand Erie and Conestoga College.
The initiative builds on Grand Erie’s recently released AI policy and procedures, which include professional development opportunities and usage guidelines for the school community.
John Tibbits, President of Conestoga College, highlighted the partnership as a step toward workforce readiness:
“By making AI education more accessible, we’re investing in our education system and ensuring it evolves alongside the technologies shaping our world.”
The course was designed to align with Grand Erie’s multi-year strategic plan, as well as its annual learning and operational priorities.
It was developed with input from Grand Erie staff and in collaboration with Dr. Paula Gouveia, Vice-President Academic at Conestoga College; Lisa Munro, Grand Erie Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement; and Lynn Thomas, eLearning Consultant with the Board.
More information is available at www.granderie.ca.
