Adam Prudhomme
Editor
A ceremony was held in the courtyard of the John M Parrott Centre on June 26 to celebrate the first graduating class of the Living Classroom course.
A partnership between JMPC and the Limestone District School Board, the course saw 28 students graduate as personal support workers (PSW) after gaining hands on experience while working with residents of the home for the aged.
“Together we are very proud to recognize each graduate, having shown dedication, resilience and desire to make a difference in the lives of others,” said Angela Malcolm, director of the JMPC. “A very simple storage room has become a fully functioning classroom. This space became more than just four walls and desks. It became a place of connection, curiosity and purpose. The immersive learning experience created through this initiative allowed students to not only learn about longterm care but to live it and it allowed our staff and residents to experience the energy of hope that each student brought with them. It has been truly a very special experience for all of us.”
The ceremony recognized two graduating cohorts of the five month program which launched in September of 2024 and ran until June. Funded through the Ministry of Education, the program aimed to help fill the shortage of PSWs across the province. Students learned in a classroom on site and then had the opportunity to apply that training with the residents.
Several of the graduating students have accepted jobs within the JMPC, others at neighbouring longterm care homes while others are furthering the education.
Joni Berry makes her valedictorian speech. Photo by Adam Prudhomme.
“Being a PSW doesn’t always mean the same thing each day,” said Joni Berry, a graduate of the program who was selected by her peers as valedictorian. “Our days consist of getting residents ready each morning, going for a walk, making the time to sit with them and talk, colouring or doing a puzzle, painting nails or encouraging social interaction. Or learning about a resident’s past enjoyment like playing guitar or finding their their favourite music or my favourite, finding a certain lady’s shoes that seem to walk away each and every day. We’ve learned that what works certain days may not work the next. The training we’ve received is exceptional and had made a difference in how we act and communicate with our residents.”
After a successful first year the program will return next fall.
