Niagara Navigator: Spring 2026

The Learning Networks of Ontario (LNO)—to which Learning Link contributes— is asking the provincial government to increase funding for Get SET (Skills, Education, Training) programs.

LNO recently shared a pre-budget submission with key provincial decision-makers. The message is simple: more adults need support to build the reading, writing, math, digital, and communication skills required for work and daily life.

Investing in adult literacy and basic skills development is a practical and affordable way to strengthen Ontario’s workforce, support people facing barriers, and build a stronger future for our communities.

ACE Biology: Work towards completing the Biology course admission requirement for programs like Personal Support Worker, Practical Nursing, Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, and more. Interested learners can complete an application form through the Niagara College Academic Upgrading website.

Biology Boot Camp: Eligible students who have applied to and been accepted into Niagara College Health programs for September 2026 may have the chance to participate in a 5-week program designed to ease the transition into full-time studies in Health programs at Niagara College.

Please contact Academic Upgrading at Niagara College to learn more about eligibility: [email protected]

At Pope Francis Centre (Niagara Catholic District School Board), education looks different—in the best possible way. This innovative community hub brings four schools together under one roof: the Young Parents Program, Alternative Education, a daycare, and St. Kateri School, which provides specialized education for self-identified Indigenous students.

The Centre offers a range of integrated supports designed to meet students where they are. Programs like Fresh Start (alternative suspension/expulsion), Jump Start (addressing high absenteeism), Parent Support for students with infants, Mental Health and Addictions supports, and the Supervised Alternative Learning Program ensure that young people facing complex barriers are not left behind.

Through strong community partnerships, students are building real pathways forward. Youth have secured co-op placements with Heart of Niagara, gained certifications such as Health & Safety and Smart Serve through Employment Services (with transportation support), and received wraparound coaching facilitated by Learning Link. With community-minded employers and coordinated supports around them, students are not just returning to school—they’re reconnecting to possibility.

Adjusting to a new country comes with both opportunity and stress. Bridges Niagara is offering free, culturally responsive wellness support to help newcomers build resilience, connection, and confidence.

Who’s eligible? New immigrants and refugees, permanent residents, live-in caregivers—and others. If you’re unsure, reach out and ask.

Mental health is about more than getting through the day. It’s about bouncing back from life’s ups and downs, feeling confident and connected, and truly thriving—not just surviving.

To learn more about wellness, stress management, or social support services, contact Bridges Niagara: [email protected]

Learning Link’s Community of Practice recently gathered at the Grow Community Food Literacy Centre (Niagara Falls) for our final meeting of the season.

Surrounded by a space dedicated to food literacy, dignity, and community connection, staff had the opportunity to step outside their usual routines and reflect together. We shared ideas, strengthened relationships, and explored how food, learning, and employment pathways intersect in powerful ways.

Hosting our gathering at Grow was a reminder that community spaces matter. They create room not only for nourishment, but for collaboration, insight, and renewed energy for the work we do every day.
We’re grateful for the chance to learn alongside one another — and within the broader community we serve.

Learning Link invites frontline staff working across education, employment, community and social services to join for one of our networking & knowledge exchange events this Spring.

Each gathering will be held 12-2pm, is free to attend and lunch will be provided.

Please complete this form to reserve your spot. Registration will be open until capacity is maximized (25 people per meeting).

Join Learning Link’s Executive Director, Rachel Crane, for a special reading and interactive activity based on her newly released book— a project designed not just to inspire, but to give back.

This book is a social venture that:
• Supports local literacy programs through 100% of proceeds
• Raises awareness about the urgency of adult and family literacy
• Provides a meaningful teaching tool for educators and learners

📚 April 11 | 3:30 p.m. | Thorold Library
📚 May 30 | 2:00 p.m. | St. Catharines Public Library – Merritt Branch

Visit the library websites for more information and to register.

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