About

Off the Grid is a half-day, full-year program for Grade 9 students who care about the planet, people, and making a difference. 

Learning takes place both in the classroom and outdoors. Through hands-on experiences such as canoeing, hiking, biking, skiing, and gardening, students learn from the land and their community. They examine how people, governments, and systems impact the environment, and who is most affected by climate change.  

Students work alongside local farmers, Elders, community activists, and community organizations to learn about climate justice, Indigenous rights, food systems, and sustainability. They see how communities create change through policy, activism, and collaboration. 

This program is designed for students who enjoy being outside, asking big questions, and taking action for their community. Off the Grid helps students build leadership skills, confidence, and hope while learning how to create a more fair and sustainable future. 

Highlights

• Get hands-on learning experiences with overnight canoeing, camping and tree planting trips around Saskatchewan. 
• Learn to be a beekeeper by taking care of the school's beehives and collecting and selling honey. 
• Learn with like-minded youth who are passionate about positively influencing our communities in and around Saskatoon.
• Meet some of Saskatchewan's leading experts in the field of environmental sustainability and get the chance to share your thoughts and values with the class.
• Gain a deeper understanding of climate and environmental justice.
• Publish environmental articles and podcasts.
• Attend local presentations and conferences.
• Run the Off the Grid Bike Shop.

Equipment

Students need suitable outdoor wear for all four seasons and access to a bicycle.

Credits

• Arts 9
• English Language Arts 9A 
• Science 9
• Social Studies 9

Application and Open House

Click here to apply online for Off the Grid in 2026-27. Applications are due February 27, 2026.

A program open house will be held on February 12, 8:00-8:30 p.m. following the Tommy Douglas Collegiate open house. 

School Registration

Students attending Grade 8 at Saskatoon Public Schools, can register using the Grade 8 High School Transition Form (link to be added when application period opens).

Students not currently registered with Saskatoon Public Schools, should use the Registration Form (link to be added when application period opens).

Contact

For questions, please contact Callie Kosmynka at kosmynkac@spsd.sk.ca.