1. What is the Post-High program?

The Post-High program sits between high school and college/university. It is designed to prepare you for post-secondary training and the industry, with mentorship from professional studio artists helping you bridge that gap. The program focuses on skill development to build a strong foundation for your creative career.

2. What will I get from the Post-High program?

You get out of the year what you put into it. Expect to learn new things, work hard, develop your skills, meet new people, get out of your comfort zone, and be part of something special—a cool, creative community.

3. When does school start?

The first day of school is Thursday, September 4th.

4. What time does class run?

Classes run from 9:00 AM sharp to 3:30 PM. Please be on time and ready to work.

5. Where will my classes be?

All Post-High 2D Animation classes take place in Animation Studio (room) 57. All Film classes take place in the Film Studio (room) 80A. All IDM & 3D classes take place in IDM Studio (room) 59.

6. How will the school day be organized?

Your day is split into two parts:

  • Morning block with one cohort teacher
  • Afternoon block with alternative cohort teacher

7. Where will I sit in class?

On the first day of school, you may sit wherever you want. The year will begin with skill development, and gradually you’ll apply those skills in a mentorship project guided by professional studio artists.

8. Can I work a job or take another program at the same time?

You may continue with a part-time job, including taking another educational program at the same time, as long as it does not interfere with the school day, homework, or educational events. This program is intense and full-time, so outside commitments must not affect your success.

9. What is the attendance policy?

Attendance is strict. Missing too many classes—excused or not—can result in being removed from events, trips, awards, and even the program. Please review the Program Code of Conduct.

10. Can I take family trips during the year?

Please don’t. Vacations or family trips should not be taken during the school year.

  • If you must travel, you must email your teachers at least 2 months in advance to discuss next steps.

11. Will I have a locker?

Yes. Each student will share (with one other post-high student) a locker outside the classroom.

  • Jackets and bags must be stored in your locker.
  • Only class materials can be brought into the studio.

12. Can I use my phone during class?

No. Phones must be put away during class hours so everyone can stay focused.

13. How will I get my report cards?

Report cards will be distributed to your WSD student email, which will be created for you, at the end of each term and semester.

14. How will communication with students and staff happen?

All communication with students and staff will be through our monitored Telegram group chat.

15. Who are the teachers and staff in the program?

Department Heads:

  • Mr. Alibudbud – Department Head of CREATE post-high IDM/3D + grade 9-12 IDM & Computer Science
  • Mr. Leduc – Department Head of CREATE post-high 2D Animation/Film + grade 9-12 Graphics & Motion Picture Arts

Post-High Teachers:

  • Mr. Alibudbud – teaches post-high IDM & 3D all year
  • Mr. Dyck-Lyons – teaches post-high film
  • Mr. Fowler – teaches post-high film
  • Mr. Galvao – teaches post-high 2D animation
  • Mr. Leduc – teaches post-high 2D Animation
  • Mr. Rempel Smith – teaches post-high IDM & 3D in semester 1
  • Mr. Slavicek – teaches post-high IDM & 3D in semester 2
    (Note: Both teachers have other classes, so they’re only available during their scheduled time with you.)

Support Staff:

  • Ms. Collins – Post-High Communications Director
  • Ms. Dizon – 2D Animation Program Assistant
  • Ms. Musni – Film & IDM Program Assistant
  • Ms. Demition – the Wacom X Create 2D Animation Program Assistant – support the Wacom mentorship group and lead Wacom initiatives
  • Mr. Peeler – Post-High career Liaison

16. What should I bring every day?

  • 2D Animation students
    • Drawing tools (sketchbook, pencils, pens, erasers, etc.)
    • A USB storage drive to back up your work
  • Film Students
    • SSD storage
    • SD Card
  • IDM & 3D students
    • A USB storage drive to back up your work

17. Will I have Wi-Fi access?

Yes. The classroom has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Wi-Fi access point. Login info will be given at school.

18. LinkedIn is a must!

Students are required to be positive members of our community and thank those who help you on this journey. Make sure your profile identifies you as a Post-High student in the Sisler High School CREATE program. Please connect with your teachers. More information about this will be discussed in class. Here is a perfect example: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-del-rosario-6913252a5/

19. Are there resources I can borrow?

Yes. You can borrow tripods, cameras, books, and other resources, but they must be signed out through a Program Assistant.

20. Why is mentorship such a big deal in this program?

Mentorship is one of the things that makes this program special. You’ll work closely in groups, and as the year goes on, you’ll be guided by professional studio artists who will share feedback, tips, and industry experience. This helps bridge the gap between school and the real world of animation.

21. Will everything be the same as last year?

Not necessarily. Every year is different! Projects, events, and opportunities may change, so come in with an open mind and be ready for new experiences.

22. Scholarships, awards, trips, and opportunities

Scholarships, awards, trips, and other opportunities are based on academic excellence and solid attendance. Please note that most of the 2024–25 scholarships may not exist this year.

23. Will there be any travel?

Potentially. Please make sure your legal photo ID or passport is current, especially if it expires during the school year. Please inform teachers if there are any medical concerns which may interfere with class trips.

24. What if I apply to a post-secondary program during the year?

If you decide to apply and get accepted to a post-secondary program while at Sisler, it is the student’s responsibility to request official transcripts from Guidance.

25. Water, hot beverages, and food

There are several water bottle dispensers throughout the building, so bring a reusable bottle. The classroom also has a microwave, but you should bring your own utensils. It is recommended that students bring their own coffee, tea, or hot chocolate cup and write their name on it for the year.

There is a cafeteria on site where students can purchase lunches and snacks. That being said, Sisler provides amazing healthy snacks for all students daily. There is also a free breakfast grab station set up near the office every morning for those who are hungry and would like a healthy way to start the day.

26. Parking

Please arrive early, as mornings are very busy with nearly 1,900 students and staff. There is no visitor or student parking in the Sisler staff lot. Please use available street parking around the community.

27. How does the year end?

The year will finish with a student showcase where students will be given an opportunity to present their work and celebrate their accomplishments.

28. When is the last day of in-class Post-High program?

The last day of in-class sessions is Thursday, June 11th. There may still be events or activities scheduled after this date.