Grade 8 to Grade 9 Transition

Throughout a student’s learning journey, a transition from one school setting to another will be required.  The transition from elementary to secondary school represents a significant event in the lives of students and one that necessitates support from and collaboration among teachers, parents, counsellors, and administrators at both elementary and secondary schools.  To support this transition, communication may occur between a student's current grade 8 teacher and their high school's Student Success Team to share information on how best to support each student in high school.

The Student Success team in each secondary school is responsible for implementing strategies that promote a smooth transition - especially for those students who may struggle with the secondary school program.  These strategies include the following:

• Developing a process for sharing student information between elementary and secondary schools in person or virtually, subject to rules relating to privacy and disclosure;

• Creating student profiles that highlight each student’s strengths and interests, as well as the student’s learning, social, and emotional needs;

• Providing assistance during orientation and other pre-entry activities;

• Providing support for timetabling and putting in place appropriate support strategies and interventions, based on student strengths and needs, that will be sustained beyond the orientation period;

• Identifying advocates and mentors for students requiring additional support; and,

• Ensuring ongoing tracking and monitoring of student progress by the Student Success team.

Open communication between the student and their parent/guardian(s) and the student's teachers and the school is always a key factor in making the transition between elementary and secondary more successful.