The Transition to High School
Making
the transition from elementary to secondary school is an important time
in your life. You may feel both excited and nervous when you are faced
with the great new opportunities and challenges that await you in high
school. You can look forward to many changes,
increased responsibility and choice, but you may also be concerned about
fitting in, having more homework and getting lost in a new school. On
top of that, high school students need to start making plans for their
future – you will be required to make choices in Grades 8 and 9 that
will affect your life after you leave high school.
We
recognize that students enter high school with different strengths,
interests, and goals. You’ll be able to select courses that suit your
needs and gradually prepare you for your goals through a specialized
four-year high school program.
Getting Help Along the Way
We are here to make your transition to high school as
smooth as possible. Take a look at some of the ways that we can help you
prepare for your future.
The Annual Education Plan – Every
student will prepare an annual education plan in Grade 7 or 8.
Preparing this plan will help you set goals and review and assess your
achievements and progress.
Guidance and Career Education – Our
schools have guidance staff that can provide you with detailed
information about various careers and about the course selections that
will best prepare your for your future. In addition, you will be
required to take a half-semester career studies course in order to
graduate.
Student Success Teacher – The student success teacher is there to support you as you make the transition to high school.
Presentations and Guest Speakers – There
will be opportunities for you to visit your high school prior to
starting Grade 9 so that you can become more comfortable and aware of
what it has to offer. You can also expect staff from our high schools to
visit your elementary school to make a presentation and answer your
questions. Once you are in high school, arrangements are made for guest
speakers and representatives from colleges and universities, student
tours of colleges and universities, visits to workplaces, and
conferences and workshops on career opportunities.
Special Education – Students
who participate in special education programs and services in Grade 8
can continue to do so in high school. As in elementary school, an
Individual Education Plan (IEP) can be developed and maintained.
Other Assistance – Students
who don't have an IEP, but need additional help to meet curriculum
expectations, will continue to receive help in high school. There may be
opportunities for other students to tutor you as well as mentoring
programs.