Empowering Youth Through Real-World Learning: Supporting Giants Ink at South Grenville High School

A small class project is making a big impact at South Grenville District High School. As part of the Real-World Learning (RWL) program, Grade 7 students in Mr. Carson’s class have launched Giants Ink, a custom T-shirt and decal business that operates out of the school library.

The Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal was proud to be their first paying customer, placing an order for 50 shirts for staff and Council. That first order helped the students secure $33,000 in advance grant funding. With this support, they were able to purchase a new printer, stock up on supplies, and expand into poster production. It also gave the program financial security to continue for at least five more years.

The Township has been a strong supporter of Real-World Learning since it was introduced in our community. Our own monthly newsletter actually began as a student-led project through the program and continues today as one of its lasting outcomes.

Now officially called Giants Ink, the student business produces vinyl designs on shirts of any size or colour, along with custom decals, stickers, and jibbitz. They’ve already filled orders for several local groups, including King’s Kitchen, Relay for Life, and upcoming school clothing drives. The students have also committed to donating 10 percent of their profits to Connect Youth and the Leo Boivin after-school program.

Through this project, students are gaining real experience in business operations, customer service, marketing, and teamwork. Their energy and professionalism are already being recognized across the community.

Giants Ink was recently featured in the June issue of the Township’s newsletter. Their work continues to show the value of supporting local students through practical, hands-on learning.

Real-World Learning

Real-World Learning is an initiative of the Upper Canada District School Board that gives students the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations. Through partnerships with local governments, businesses, and community organizations, students take on meaningful projects that develop their problem-solving, communication, and career-readiness skills.