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 animation 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 animation 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.
6. How will the school day be organized?
Your day is split into two parts:
- Mornings: 2D Animation with Mr. Leduc
- Afternoons: Pre-Visualization (PreViz) & Storyboarding with Mr. Galvao
7. Where will I sit in class?
On the first day of school, you may sit wherever you want. Once mentorship groups are assigned, you will sit with your mentorship group. There are no solo projects—all work is collaborative. 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.
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?
Here’s who you’ll be working with:
- Mr. Leduc – teaches 2D Animation in the mornings
- Mr. Galvao – teaches PreViz & Storyboarding in the afternoons
(Note: Both teachers have other classes, so they’re only available during their scheduled time with you.) - Mr. Altura – Program Assistant, with you all day
- Ms. Musni – Program Assistant for the IDM cohort (not always available to Post-High)
- Ms. Dizon & the Wacom X Create Program Assistant – support the Wacom mentorship group and lead Wacom initiatives
- Ms. Collins & Mr. Peeler – support all Post-High students in the CREATE program
16. What technology will I use?
- A MacBook Pro and Wacom Cintiq for in-class use (your own set for the year)
- If you don’t have a computer at home, we’ll loan you one for home use
- We want to thank Wacom for being a proud supporter of our program and an amazing educational partner.
17. What software will we use?
You’ll be given access to:
- Adobe Creative Cloud
- Toon Boom Harmony Premium
- Toon Boom Storyboard Pro
- Wacom group students may also use additional software compatible with the MovinkPad and participate in mentorship between Wacom and the group
- We want to thank Toon Boom Animation for being a proud supporter of our program and an amazing educational partner.
18. What should I bring every day?
- Drawing tools (sketchbook, pencils, pens, erasers, etc.)
- A USB storage drive to back up your work
19. 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.
20. 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/
21. Are there resources I can borrow?
Yes. You can borrow 2D animation books and other animation resources, but they must be signed out through a Program Assistant.
22. 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.
23. 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.
24. 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.
25. 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.
26. 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.
27. 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.
28. 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.
29. How does the year end?
The year will finish with a student showcase and the end-of-year AniJam, where students can present their work and celebrate their accomplishments.
30. 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.
31. Post-High 2D Animation Courses:
Check out the course summaries
- MP206V1S.99 – Exploration of Motion Picture Arts with a focus on story structure
- MP207V2S.99 – Introduction to Motion Picture Arts with a focus on the animation pipeline
- MP208V3S.99 – Fundamentals of Animation
- MP209V3S.99 – Fundamentals of Compositing and Visual Effects in Harmony
- MP210V3S.99 – Fundamentals of PreVisualization and Storyboarding
- MP211V4S.99 – Applied Motion Picture Arts with a focus on cut out animation in Harmony
- MP212V4S.99 – Motion Picture Arts Project Management
- MP213V4S.99 – Motion Picture Arts Studio Training
- MP214V4S.99 – Motion Picture Arts Portfolio Development
