The move from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is likely one of the biggest changes of a student's life, and hopefully one of the most exciting. To help Grade 8 students make a smooth transition to secondary school, students, teachers, and families are involved in an extensive planning process that takes place between November and August each year.

In January, Student Success Team members from secondary schools visit Grade 8 classrooms to explain course and program choices for the following year. Students will be automatically transferred to their home secondary school based on their current home elementary school. You can locate your child’s home secondary school by visiting the school locator tool and enter your home address under the School Eligibility. Students who have applied to Choices at 9 programs will be notified by January 22 and will need to confirm their acceptance by January 29. We are hopeful that students will have an opportunity to visit their new secondary school prior to September 2021. For additional information please visit the appropriate secondary school website. If you have further questions regarding this process please contact your child’s current elementary school. 
Due to the restrictions this year, we are unable to provide in person Grade 8 Information Nights for families to attend. Secondary schools have provided an overview video for families to watch to learn more about their future secondary school. You can watch the videos on our Limestone Youtube Channel Playlist Grade 8 to 9 Transitions Class of 2025. Students and families are encouraged to make use of the myBlueprint tool that allows students to plan and select high school courses, explore occupations and post-secondary options, and record important information and reflections related to their career and education planning. All pathways will lead to excellent opportunities in the future, and determining the best pathway is an important process.

In August, students will receive Grade 9 timetables, and be given the opportunity to tour their secondary school to become familiar with classrooms, to be assigned lockers, and to pick up textbooks.

In September, there are many people available at the high school to support students in their chosen pathway. Administrators, teachers, guidance counsellors, success teachers, learning support teachers, adolescent care workers, and student mentors all want to make the first year of secondary school successful and a positive experience. Students and parents/guardians should not hesitate to ask questions and get help.