Big News for the Technological Education Hub at AMSS!!
LKDSB Announces Major Capital Project and Innovative Off-Site Learning Opportunity for AMSS Students
The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) is moving forward with a proactive capital project to remove and replace Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) roofing at Alexander Mackenzie Secondary School (AMSS) as part of a province-wide initiative supported by dedicated funding from the Ontario Ministry of Education.
RAAC, a lightweight concrete material used in construction between the 1950s and 1980s, was identified in specific areas of AMSS, including above the technology wing, gymnasium, and boiler room. While these spaces remain safe to occupy during planning, the complexity of the work above the boiler room—which serves the entire school—requires an extended construction timeline. To ensure student learning continues uninterrupted, AMSS students will relocate to Lambton College from March to June 2026.
This temporary move is an exciting opportunity for students to experience hands-on learning in a post-secondary environment. Through this partnership, students will have access to the college and its facilities, fostering real-world skills and strengthening the connection between secondary and post-secondary education.
“This has really introduced a great opportunity for our students,” said Director of Education, Gary Girardi, “They will largely benefit from an enriched learning experience at Lambton College while we revitalize AMSS for generations to come.”
“We look forward to welcoming these students to Lambton College,” said Rob Kardas, President & CEO, Lambton College. “We’re excited to be working with our partners at Lambton Kent District School Board to ensure a seamless academic year for Alexander Mackenzie Secondary School and to showcase the welcoming, hands-on, student-centered environment that defines Lambton College.”
LKDSB is committed to keeping families and staff informed throughout this process. Updates will be shared as timelines are finalized. AMSS Tech Ed Hub will be hosting an information session at the school on Wednesday, January 28 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. We appreciate the support of our school community as we take this important step toward modernizing our facilities and creating innovative learning opportunities.
For more information, please visit www.LKDSB.net/RAAC
For reference information contact:
Caress Lee
Public Relations Officer
caress.lee@lkdsb.net
(519) 336-1500 Ext 31262
During the recent roofing unit in our Construction Program, students took on an incredible, real-world assignment: building and completing a full roofing system from the ground up. This wasn’t a simulation or worksheet; students planned, framed, and constructed custom roof trusses to create a multi-sloped roof deck system that mirrors what they’ll see on actual job sites.
The project was intentionally designed to give students industry-standard experience while maintaining a safe working height. With the roof deck in place, students will continue developing hands-on skills in shingling, siding, and flashing, learning proper techniques, material use, and attention to detail required in today’s construction industry.
This project challenged students to think critically, work as a team, follow measurements and plans, and apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting—all while building confidence with tools and construction methods used by professionals every day.
Experiences like this are what make our Dual Credit Construction Technology program so powerful: students gain real skills, real experience, and a strong foundation for careers in construction and the skilled trades.
The project was intentionally designed to give students industry-standard experience while maintaining a safe working height. With the roof deck in place, students will continue developing hands-on skills in shingling, siding, and flashing, learning proper techniques, material use, and attention to detail required in today’s construction industry.
This project challenged students to think critically, work as a team, follow measurements and plans, and apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting—all while building confidence with tools and construction methods used by professionals every day.
Experiences like this are what make our Dual Credit Construction Technology program so powerful: students gain real skills, real experience, and a strong foundation for careers in construction and the skilled trades.
During the recent roofing unit in our Construction Program, students took on an incredible, real-world assignment: building and completing a full roofing system from the ground up. This wasn’t a simulation or worksheet; students planned, framed, and constructed custom roof trusses to create a multi-sloped roof deck system that mirrors what they’ll see on actual job sites.
The project was intentionally designed to give students industry-standard experience while maintaining a safe working height. With the roof deck in place, students will continue developing hands-on skills in shingling, siding, and flashing, learning proper techniques, material use, and attention to detail required in today’s construction industry.
This project challenged students to think critically, work as a team, follow measurements and plans, and apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting—all while building confidence with tools and construction methods used by professionals every day.
Experiences like this are what make our Dual Credit Construction Technology program so powerful: students gain real skills, real experience, and a strong foundation for careers in construction and the skilled trades.
The project was intentionally designed to give students industry-standard experience while maintaining a safe working height. With the roof deck in place, students will continue developing hands-on skills in shingling, siding, and flashing, learning proper techniques, material use, and attention to detail required in today’s construction industry.
This project challenged students to think critically, work as a team, follow measurements and plans, and apply classroom knowledge in a practical setting—all while building confidence with tools and construction methods used by professionals every day.
Experiences like this are what make our Dual Credit Construction Technology program so powerful: students gain real skills, real experience, and a strong foundation for careers in construction and the skilled trades.
We were pleased to welcome David Cassidy, Skilled Trades Special Advisor (STSA) to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, to AMSS today. Accompanied by Michael Spagnolo, Manager for the STSA, Mr. Cassidy toured our Technological Education Hub, gaining a firsthand look at our state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programming.
The visit included tours of all our course areas, including Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Automotive, PSW, Culinary and Hospitality, Construction, Landscaping, and Horticulture. The group also sat down to discuss the future of trades-based education in Ontario and to talk about the tech-immersive programming at The Tech Hub and where we can fit into the future of trades training in Ontario.
We were also joined by LKDSB Director of Education Gary Girardi, Associate Director and Treasurer, Brian McKay, Superintendent Mary Mancini, and Caress Lee, LKDSB Public Relations Officer, who helped showcase the incredible learning opportunities available to our students.
We are hopeful this visit will strengthen connections with Ministry officials and support future initiatives and continued growth of the Tech Hub at AMSS.
The visit included tours of all our course areas, including Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Automotive, PSW, Culinary and Hospitality, Construction, Landscaping, and Horticulture. The group also sat down to discuss the future of trades-based education in Ontario and to talk about the tech-immersive programming at The Tech Hub and where we can fit into the future of trades training in Ontario.
We were also joined by LKDSB Director of Education Gary Girardi, Associate Director and Treasurer, Brian McKay, Superintendent Mary Mancini, and Caress Lee, LKDSB Public Relations Officer, who helped showcase the incredible learning opportunities available to our students.
We are hopeful this visit will strengthen connections with Ministry officials and support future initiatives and continued growth of the Tech Hub at AMSS.
Today we gathered for our annual Holiday Dinner at the Technological Education Hub at AMSS, students, staff, and our whole community sharing a meal, laughter, and the spirit of the season.
Even as AMSS enters a new chapter of the Tech Ed Hub, traditions like this remind us of who we are: a connected, supportive, and growing school community. Keeping these moments alive helps us carry our history forward while building something fresh and exciting.
Here’s to tradition, togetherness, and everything ahead.
Even as AMSS enters a new chapter of the Tech Ed Hub, traditions like this remind us of who we are: a connected, supportive, and growing school community. Keeping these moments alive helps us carry our history forward while building something fresh and exciting.
Here’s to tradition, togetherness, and everything ahead.
We’re incredibly proud of Chasity Riedel, a dedicated graduate of the Technological Education Hub at AMSS, for being awarded the first IODE Hon. Malcolm Cameron Education Bursary for Women in the Skilled Trades which was sponsored by the Sarnia Rotary Club.
The bursary is specifically aimed at a student participating in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). OYAP is a School to Work initiative designed to give high school students a head start on an apprenticeship while they are still completing their secondary school diploma.
Chasity’s hard work, determination, and passion for skilled trades are always evident. This bursary recognizes her commitment to breaking barriers and building a bright future in the industry. Chasity is currently enrolled in the Welding Techniques Program at Lambton College.
Our Tech Ed Hub grads are already making waves and we couldn't be prouder of being part of their success.
The bursary is specifically aimed at a student participating in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). OYAP is a School to Work initiative designed to give high school students a head start on an apprenticeship while they are still completing their secondary school diploma.
Chasity’s hard work, determination, and passion for skilled trades are always evident. This bursary recognizes her commitment to breaking barriers and building a bright future in the industry. Chasity is currently enrolled in the Welding Techniques Program at Lambton College.
Our Tech Ed Hub grads are already making waves and we couldn't be prouder of being part of their success.
🎬 Capture the Spirit, Inspire the Future! 🌟
Applications are NOW OPEN for the LKDSB School Ambassador Program!
Are you a secondary student with a passion for storytelling, photography, or video creation? This is your chance to step into the spotlight and showcase what makes your school unique!
✅ Gain hands-on experience in media creation
✅ Work with LKDSB staff and alumni professionals
✅ Celebrate your work at our Film Festival & Ambassador Appreciation Event in June!
📅 Apply between December 1 – December 15
👉 www.LKDSB.net/SchoolAmbassador
Applications are NOW OPEN for the LKDSB School Ambassador Program!
Are you a secondary student with a passion for storytelling, photography, or video creation? This is your chance to step into the spotlight and showcase what makes your school unique!
✅ Gain hands-on experience in media creation
✅ Work with LKDSB staff and alumni professionals
✅ Celebrate your work at our Film Festival & Ambassador Appreciation Event in June!
📅 Apply between December 1 – December 15
👉 www.LKDSB.net/SchoolAmbassador
Last Friday was another exciting day at AMSS. Our valued program partner, Progressive Auto Sales, generously donated a Pro Wheel Alignment Machine to our Transportation Program.
This cutting-edge equipment will transform our shop, giving students hands-on experience with modern technology and preparing them for the future of automotive service.
In the photo, our Transportation Technology Teacher Mr. Wilkinson and Mr. Keane our Principal are generously accepting the machine from Joe McIntyre, Director of Fixed Operations at Progressive Auto, along with Mrs. Anger, Vice-Principal.
A big shout out to Preferred Towing for transporting the machine from Progressive to AMSS on Friday.
And a huge THANK YOU! to Progressive Auto for investing in our learners and helping us drive innovation forward. Your support keeps our program; and our students, moving in the right path to employment.
This cutting-edge equipment will transform our shop, giving students hands-on experience with modern technology and preparing them for the future of automotive service.
In the photo, our Transportation Technology Teacher Mr. Wilkinson and Mr. Keane our Principal are generously accepting the machine from Joe McIntyre, Director of Fixed Operations at Progressive Auto, along with Mrs. Anger, Vice-Principal.
A big shout out to Preferred Towing for transporting the machine from Progressive to AMSS on Friday.
And a huge THANK YOU! to Progressive Auto for investing in our learners and helping us drive innovation forward. Your support keeps our program; and our students, moving in the right path to employment.
Hey Mustangs, AMSS Spirit Wear is for sale on-demand from Team Outfitters.
They are offering a 10% off all AMSS Spirit Wear until November 28th!
This is a great opportunity for students, staff, and families to show their school pride and gear up for the season,
as well as do some early Holiday shopping!
Here is the link to our online store
https://teamoutfitters.net/collections/amss
They are offering a 10% off all AMSS Spirit Wear until November 28th!
This is a great opportunity for students, staff, and families to show their school pride and gear up for the season,
as well as do some early Holiday shopping!
Here is the link to our online store
https://teamoutfitters.net/collections/amss
Who wants popcorn? We all want popcorn!
Popcorn will be sold every Wednesday starting November 19, at the popup store beside the Library.
Only $2.50/bag (cash only).
All proceeds benefit the Student Appreciation Program Prizes.
Popcorn will be sold every Wednesday starting November 19, at the popup store beside the Library.
Only $2.50/bag (cash only).
All proceeds benefit the Student Appreciation Program Prizes.
On Wednesday, students from the Technological Education Hub at AMSS travelled to London for the Level Up! Career Event. This exciting chance to explore the future of skilled trades was a day our students won't forget.
Level Up! is a dynamic, multi-day career fair that brings together top skilled trades professionals, industry organizations, post-secondary institutions, employers, and more. With over 140+ skilled trades represented, hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and real conversations with tradespeople who live the work every day , our students were given a great opportunity to think about their own future in the trades.
We can’t wait for our students to experience inspiring pathways and life-changing career opportunities waiting for them .
Level Up! is a dynamic, multi-day career fair that brings together top skilled trades professionals, industry organizations, post-secondary institutions, employers, and more. With over 140+ skilled trades represented, hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and real conversations with tradespeople who live the work every day , our students were given a great opportunity to think about their own future in the trades.
We can’t wait for our students to experience inspiring pathways and life-changing career opportunities waiting for them .
It’s an exciting time in the Hairstyling and Aesthetics Program at the Technological Education Hub at AMSS! Mr. Claxton’s double credit Hair & Aesthetics students have been busy putting their creativity and technical skills to the test.
During Studio Day on Friday, the classroom was transformed into a professional salon environment, practicing advanced hairstyling techniques, nail art, and makeup artistry. From updos to color theory and skincare routines, everyone was hands-on and industry-focused, building both confidence and career-ready skills.
Future stylists and beauty professionals in the making — keep up the amazing work!
During Studio Day on Friday, the classroom was transformed into a professional salon environment, practicing advanced hairstyling techniques, nail art, and makeup artistry. From updos to color theory and skincare routines, everyone was hands-on and industry-focused, building both confidence and career-ready skills.
Future stylists and beauty professionals in the making — keep up the amazing work!
Yesterday, our Culinary Arts students showcased their creativity and skill by preparing delicious treats for the ALLP High Tea that was hosted by Ms. Benjamin in the Library.
Mr. Lavoie’s students crafted elegant Cucumber and Chicken Salad Sandwiches, along with an assortment of delightful desserts baked as part of his Culinary and Baking classes.
It was a wonderful opportunity for our Culinary Program to share their talents and contribute to a special event for our ALLP students. Great teamwork, creativity, and presentation all around. From recipe planning to presentation, our students put their technical training to work and absolutely nailed it.
Mr. Lavoie’s students crafted elegant Cucumber and Chicken Salad Sandwiches, along with an assortment of delightful desserts baked as part of his Culinary and Baking classes.
It was a wonderful opportunity for our Culinary Program to share their talents and contribute to a special event for our ALLP students. Great teamwork, creativity, and presentation all around. From recipe planning to presentation, our students put their technical training to work and absolutely nailed it.
Last Wednesday, the LKDSB Technological Education Hub at AMSS proudly hosted the Elementary AgScape Event and the Skills Ontario Interactive Trailer for a day full of innovation, exploration, and hands-on learning.
Over 200 students from AMSS, Errol Road, Lakeroad, King George, and Rosedale got a first-hand look at exciting opportunities in both agriculture and the skilled trades. Local and provincial representatives from the Ag industry were on site to share insights into the wide range of careers available and the essential skills needed to succeed.
The Skills Ontario Trailer was also on hand and offered interactive virtual challenges that gave students a real feel for what it's like to work in the trades, from electrical to construction and beyond
The grade 6, 7, and 8 students were also able to tour the AMSS Tech Hub. They got a firsthand look at our cutting-edge facilities and saw classes happening right in front of them. We were able to tour all of our course areas including, Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Automotive, PSW Program, Culinary and Hospitality, Construction, Landscaping, and Horticulture, hopefully inspiring them to join us when they are ready for secondary.
Over 200 students from AMSS, Errol Road, Lakeroad, King George, and Rosedale got a first-hand look at exciting opportunities in both agriculture and the skilled trades. Local and provincial representatives from the Ag industry were on site to share insights into the wide range of careers available and the essential skills needed to succeed.
The Skills Ontario Trailer was also on hand and offered interactive virtual challenges that gave students a real feel for what it's like to work in the trades, from electrical to construction and beyond
The grade 6, 7, and 8 students were also able to tour the AMSS Tech Hub. They got a firsthand look at our cutting-edge facilities and saw classes happening right in front of them. We were able to tour all of our course areas including, Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Automotive, PSW Program, Culinary and Hospitality, Construction, Landscaping, and Horticulture, hopefully inspiring them to join us when they are ready for secondary.
Get ready for Canadian Trivia Night hosted by AMSS on October 25 at the Dante Club. Test your knowledge, have fun, and support a great cause. All proceeds benefit the AMSS Breakfast Program and our A.L.L.P Program.
Gather your friends and join us for a night of fun and giving back!
Gather your friends and join us for a night of fun and giving back!
Co-op Profile
We’re excited to launch a new series spotlighting our incredible Co-op students who are making waves during their placements with the Technological Education Hub at AMSS.
These students are bringing innovation, curiosity, and real-world skills to the table and we can’t wait to share their stories with you.
Here is this week’s Co-op Student Profile.
Big shout out to our community and Co-Op partner B & D Insulation
We’re excited to launch a new series spotlighting our incredible Co-op students who are making waves during their placements with the Technological Education Hub at AMSS.
These students are bringing innovation, curiosity, and real-world skills to the table and we can’t wait to share their stories with you.
Here is this week’s Co-op Student Profile.
Big shout out to our community and Co-Op partner B & D Insulation
We're not just studying learning strategies, we're applying them.
Our Trade-Focused Learning Strategies class at The Tech Hub @ AMSS, was busy this week. Students were putting their numeracy, literacy, planning, and problem-solving skills to the test by building a rebar cage for a concrete project that will allow the picnic tables they assembled to be installed in our courtyard.
From drafting plans and creating material lists to calculating total costs (tax and delivery included!), these students are getting a real-world taste of what it takes to succeed in the skilled trades.
And it's not just about the tools and math, it's about teamwork, communication, and workplace readiness. Working in groups they are developing and refining soft skills that can directly contribute to future successes in a workplace setting.
This is what authentic, skills-based education looks like.
Our Trade-Focused Learning Strategies class at The Tech Hub @ AMSS, was busy this week. Students were putting their numeracy, literacy, planning, and problem-solving skills to the test by building a rebar cage for a concrete project that will allow the picnic tables they assembled to be installed in our courtyard.
From drafting plans and creating material lists to calculating total costs (tax and delivery included!), these students are getting a real-world taste of what it takes to succeed in the skilled trades.
And it's not just about the tools and math, it's about teamwork, communication, and workplace readiness. Working in groups they are developing and refining soft skills that can directly contribute to future successes in a workplace setting.
This is what authentic, skills-based education looks like.
Students from the Construction Tech Class were directly involved in the fine details of finishing on our concrete project from yesterday. This was a great example of how students are working on real life job-based projects from the first steps right down to the finishing touches. Real world, hands on learning is the focus at the Tech Hub at AMSS.
Pour Day at the Tech Hub!!
Early morning hustle with the SHSM Construction Tech Class today. Students were up close and hands-on pouring concrete for a new pad that will soon support a shed dedicated to storing equipment for our Horticulture and Landscaping Program.
Thanks to Chrissy from Pro-Concrete Products Limited for pouring the concrete while our students helped spread it into the custom forms they designed and built just last week. Great teamwork and skills in action!
Students were curious and took initiative and were able to help Krissy with set up and cleaning of equipment - getting some real world experience.
Big shout out to Pro-Concrete Products Limited for excellent service and quality product.
Early morning hustle with the SHSM Construction Tech Class today. Students were up close and hands-on pouring concrete for a new pad that will soon support a shed dedicated to storing equipment for our Horticulture and Landscaping Program.
Thanks to Chrissy from Pro-Concrete Products Limited for pouring the concrete while our students helped spread it into the custom forms they designed and built just last week. Great teamwork and skills in action!
Students were curious and took initiative and were able to help Krissy with set up and cleaning of equipment - getting some real world experience.
Big shout out to Pro-Concrete Products Limited for excellent service and quality product.
A big thank you to Lambton BMR for their generous donation to our
SHSM Construction Trades Program! We’re incredibly grateful for their contribution of siding, trim, soffit, and fascia - materials our students will use to build real-world exterior finishing skills that are transferable across the construction industry.
Lambton BMR, located in Petrolia, proudly supplies the Lambton area with quality building materials and supports larger projects like decks, windows and doors, and kitchen cabinet installations and renovations.
Community partners like Lambton BMR play a vital role in the success of our programs. Their support helps us connect students with real-world businesses and leaders in the trades - providing experiences that prepare them for future success.
We’re always looking to build strong community connections and welcome support for our programs in Hair and Aesthetics, Horticulture and Landscaping, Transportation, Personal Support Worker, Construction, and Culinary.
If you're interested in getting involved with the exciting things happening at the Tech Hub, please reach out through our website: www.lkdsb.net/o/amss.
SHSM Construction Trades Program! We’re incredibly grateful for their contribution of siding, trim, soffit, and fascia - materials our students will use to build real-world exterior finishing skills that are transferable across the construction industry.
Lambton BMR, located in Petrolia, proudly supplies the Lambton area with quality building materials and supports larger projects like decks, windows and doors, and kitchen cabinet installations and renovations.
Community partners like Lambton BMR play a vital role in the success of our programs. Their support helps us connect students with real-world businesses and leaders in the trades - providing experiences that prepare them for future success.
We’re always looking to build strong community connections and welcome support for our programs in Hair and Aesthetics, Horticulture and Landscaping, Transportation, Personal Support Worker, Construction, and Culinary.
If you're interested in getting involved with the exciting things happening at the Tech Hub, please reach out through our website: www.lkdsb.net/o/amss.
