Henry Ford didn't invent the Model T until he was 45-years-old, which is nearly four-times older than the Grade 7 students at Weledeh Catholic School.
One student in particular is channelling his inner Ford by turning curriculum mandated free-learning time into a passion for auto-mechanics.
Kym Kanatsiak, 12, is using the school's genius hour program to rebuild a go-kart, given to him by his grandfather.
It was the family's love of cars that piqued Kanatsiak's curiosity.
Michael Hugall/NNSL photo
“My dad is the reason I've wanted to learn so much about cars,” said Kanatsiak. “He's really liked cars and was one of the reasons I got the go-kart.”
What the amateur engineer is most curious about is how the engine works and what makes the car go.
The genius hour program started this school year to coincide with MakerSpace developed by the school to promote innovative learning for students with an interest in areas other than the traditional courses.
Kanatsiak said the genius hour teacher's shared passion for auto-mechanics made him increasingly excited about rebuilding his go-kart.
“I'm really excited to drive it,” said Kanatsiak. “My favourite task was taking the go-kart apart, painting it and rebuilding it.”
Kanatsiak's passion for auto-mechanics has allowed other students with a similar passion to rebuild their rides.
A miniature auto-body station is set up at the school and includes go-karts and sport-bikes. Kanatsiak and the other motorists as well as instructor Ulli Nolting will head out to the Kimberlite Career and Technical Centre next week to gas up and start the engines.
During the curriculum, Kanatsiak has learned about how engines operate.
He will show off his purple go-kart at the school's genius hour showcase today.
One of technical lessons he appreciated is the pistons in the engine push fuelled air to the spark plugs which makes the engine start.
The concept for genius hour was originated by Google. Dubbed "20 per cent time,” it gave employees an opportunity to explore their passions. The program created apps such as Gmail and AdSense.
Michael Hugall/NNSL photo
Weledeh principal Todd Stewart said adopting the program has helped provide students a more practical way of learning.
“We are promoting student voice in where we give students the power to learn what they want, how they want,” said Stewart. “More than anything people have to find their passion, their niche, and genius hour allows that for every student.”
Faculty will continue to be open to whatever students are passionate about as long as they are willing to put the work in and research, he added.
“My answer to the kids is why not, let's try it,” he said. “The dream will be when they are showing it to the world but right now we have a showcase on Friday where they will be showing the community. As long as it fits in the curriculum I'm excited about it.”
Kanatsiak said he is mostly looking forward riding his completed go-kart at his grandpa's house in the summer.