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. Students explore how climate change, social justice, and politics are connected, and how their choices and voices matter.

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, 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 on social and environmental justice issues impacting the community. Off the Grid helps students build leadership skills, confidence, and hope while learning how to create a more fair and sustainable future.

Program Highlights

• Participate in outdoor learning experiences such as canoeing, camping, and tree planting
• Learn about climate justice, Indigenous rights, and social change
• Explore food systems and sustainable gardening
• Work on real-world community projects
• Meet local leaders, activists, and changemakers
• Create podcasts, writing, art, and media focused on issues that matter
• Learn how youth can make a difference

Equipment

Students must have appropriate outdoor clothing for all four seasons and access to a bicycle.

Credits

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

Application and Open House

As of February 27, 2026, the application period has closed. Late applications may be considered as space allows. Click here to add your name to the waitlist for Off the Grid in 2026-27. 

A program open house was 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.

Students not currently registered with Saskatoon Public Schools, should use the Registration Form.

Contact

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