Preparing for High School Information Sessions for Grade 8 Families

To support our Grade 8 students and families, the TDSB will be hosting a series of Preparing for High School Information Sessions. The series includes:

1. Grade 8 to Grade 9 Transitions

Taking place on November 1, 2023, this session will focus on the Top 10 Tips and Considerations in the Transition to High School. This presentation is designed to augment the work already taking place through secondary open houses and at the Grade 8 schools. For more information, visit the TDSB Beyond 8 website.

2. Student Interest Programs

The TDSB offers over 50 programs with a particular focus. These programs are for anyone who demonstrates an interest and passion in the particular program area. On November 2, 2023, the Student Interest Program Webinar will provide more information about local programs, out-of-area admissions and applying to central student interest programs, including:

• Arts Focus Programs/Schools 
• Exceptional Athlete Program 
• Integrated Technology School  
• International Baccalaureate Programs 
• Leadership Pathway Program 
• Math, Science & Technology Programs 
• Other programs such as High Performing Athlete Programs

Application for these programs opens on November 6, 2023 and closes on November 24 at 4 p.m. 

To further support students and families with the application process, TDSB staff will be hosting two (2) Central Student Interest Program Application Support Sessions to answer questions that students or families may have about the application.  Live, online support will be available on the following dates:·         

• November 14 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. (Click here to join)·         
• November 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. (Click here to join)

Staff will not be able to answer specific program and/or school-based questions.  

For more information about the programs available at schools across the TDSB, attend the schools’ Open Houses and Information Sessions. To learn more about the central student interest programs, visit the Central Student Interest Programs website.

3. Virtual Secondary Alternative Schools Fair

Taking place on January 10, 2024, this session will introduce families to the Alternative schools that offer Grade 9 to 12 programming. Alternative schools are highly engaged, smaller school environments. They use non-traditional, hands-on approaches to learning. Each school has a distinct identity and focus.  Alternative schools are ideal for students seeking an alternative to mainstream education and who want to take an active role in their own learning. Visit the Alternative Schools in the TDSB website for more information.

Webinar Details:

The Preparing for High Schools Series webinar details, including the link to register and request an interpreter, can be found below.  Requests for interpretation services can be made in the registration form and must be made no later than Friday, October 27, 2023. The recordings of these events will be available on the TDSB Guidance site and on the PCEO YouTube Channel. 

Students with Special Education Needs

Students with an exceptionality for whom a change in setting or program is being considered for grade 9 will be discussed at the Annual IPRC Review. Students with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) and no formal identification, will be discussed at the School Support Team (SST) meeting. Please note this meeting will occur with the parent(s)/guardian(s)/caregiver(s). 

Grade 8 to 9 Transition Timeline

Please use the Grade 8 Transition Year - At a Glance to help navigate the Grade 8 to 9 Transition process this year.

Resources:

• To view the Secondary School Virtual Open Houses and Information Sessions, please visit https://www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Open-Houses-and-Information-Nights
• For more information about transitioning from Grade 8 to 9 in the TDSB, please visit https://www.tdsb.on.ca/High-School/Going-to-High-School/Beyond-8
• For more information about the Central Student Interest Programs in the TDSB, please visit https://www.tdsb.on.ca/csip
• For more information about Alternative Schools in the TDSB please visit https://www.tdsb.on.ca/alternativeschools/