Be Community

Goal: Improve student graduation rates and preparedness for Future Success

Indicator 1: Increase the percentage of grade 10 students earning 16 or more credits 

Potential Data Sources:

• Indicator Report 

• Powerschool 

Strategies: 

• Access and expand credit recovery opportunities throughout the year

• Provide early interventions (.eg. peer tutoring , credit recovery, literacy/numeracy, mental health supports)

• Increase awareness among student success teams, guidance and teachers about available support programs through targeted professional development (eg. 

• Enhance  career awareness initiatives (Algonquin Connections, Launch Career Fair) 

• Identify barriers to students achieving 16 credits 

• Focus on Ministry mandated IPP development through MyBlueprint to improve students goal setting skills and career awareness  

Indicator 2 (Secondary only):  To increase the percentage of students participating in at least one job skills program (SHSM, Dual Credit, Co-op or OYAP)

Potential Data Sources:

• Use Powerschool data reports to provide baseline numbers in SHSM, Dual Credit, Co-op , OYAP programs. 

• MTEL data (through Co-op teacher) 

• Access dual credit information from dual credit support teacher at Algonquin 

• Student survey results (quantitative and anecdotal)

Strategies:

• Apply for new SHSM programs; promote and market current SHSM programs to students and parents 

• Educate parents about the skilled trades, Co-op and OYAP opportunities through guest speakers, CSPA presentation, parent and program nights

• Use tech trailer visits to promote the job skills programs to grade 8 and 10 students 

• Promote Dual Credit program (both College and University opportunities

• Have Co-op teacher present at course selection presentations to provide information and answer questions   

• Provide professional development to staff about job skills programs at staff meetings and/or PD days 

• Student surveys at the beginning and end of year to gage interest and knowledge about job skills programs available and barriers to participating 

Indicator 3 (Secondary only): Increase the percentage of students graduating with an OSSD within 5 years of starting grade 9 by ___%. 

Potential Data Sources: 

• Ministry data tool 

• PowerSchool graduation reports 

Strategies 

• Provide opportunities for students to access Mature Student PLAR equivalent credits 

• Special achievement centers (SAL, PLC, OCH),  dual credits, apprenticeships and other alternative programs 

• Offer professional development for guidance counselors to identify students who could benefit from PLAR challenge credits 

• Expand summer SWAC program participation 

• IPP implementation through Myblueprint and yearly review with students to create goals and actions plans

• Targeted planning for students requiring 5th year

Indicator 4 (Secondary only): To increase % of students enrolled in at least one Grade 12 math or Grade 11 or 12 science courses.

Potential Data Sources:

PowerSchool course enrollment reports can provide the data on the number of students enrolled in specific courses.

Strategies:

• Promote math and science courses and the value of math and science related to various career paths in all pathways

• Promote the importance and value of math and science within the parent community at course selection 

• Continue to include career exploration activities in science and math classes in grades 9 and 10 to connect subject areas with specific careers in the trades, and college and university pathways 

• Address Math Anxiety: Create a positive learning environment that reduces math anxiety and builds students' confidence in their abilities

• Math & Science Help Centres: Establish dedicated spaces where students can access tutoring, extra help, and resources to support their learning in these subjects.

• Mentorship Programs: Pair senior students with those in earlier grades to provide guidance, study tips, and encouragement.

• Student-Led Campaigns: Encourage students passionate about math and science to create promotional materials, lead workshops, or organize events.

• Continue to develop partnerships with community members working in a variety of STEM industries

• Encourage class, teacher and student participation in Board supported activities like, Launch2024, Monthly Career panels, Career Week, STEAM Week, Earth Week, etc. to expose students to a variety of careers, experts and hands-on opportunities 

Indicator 5 (Secondary only): Increase the % of students who believe their learning has prepared them for the next step in their learning.

Potential Data Sources: 

• Exit surveys completed at the end of grade 8 and 12.

• Collect student voice and student data after participation in a variety of experiences and courses such as, Dual Credits, OYAP, Co-op and SHSM

Strategies:

1. • Clearly demonstrate the connection between math and science courses and various career options, highlighting both traditional and emerging fields.

   • Use real-world examples, testimonials, and career panels to make the link tangible for students.

   • Embed math and science concepts into other subjects whenever possible, showcasing their relevance across disciplines.

   • Offer a variety of engaging extracurricular activities (clubs, competitions, etc.) to foster a passion for STEM outside the classroom.

   • Host informational sessions for parents to discuss the importance of math and science, course options, and potential career pathways.

   • Provide resources and guidance for parents to support their children's learning in these subjects.

   • In grades 9 and 10, incorporate career exploration activities into math and science courses, inviting guest speakers, organizing field trips, and showcasing career profiles.

   • Help students understand the practical applications of their learning and how it can lead to future success.