Based on new Ministry of Education policy, Limestone District School Board is introducing changes to assessment and evaluation practices in secondary schools beginning this school year.
Previously, Grades 9 to 12 secondary school courses were evaluated based on 70% classroom learning and 30% final evaluations or exams.
What has changed?
- Most secondary school courses will include an exam, which will take place during the designated exam period.
- The new policy introduces separate evaluation structures for Grades 9 and 10 as well as Grades 11 and 12:
- Grades 9 and 10: 65% classroom learning, 20% mandatory final evaluation, and 15% attendance and participation.
- Grades 11 and 12: 65% classroom learning, 25% mandatory final evaluation, and 10% attendance and participation.
- Previously, attendance and participation were not included in students' overall grades. Under the new policy, attendance and participation will now account for a portion of the final grade:
- Grades 9 and 10: 15%
- Grades 11 and 12: 10%
To help families understand these changes, we have created the Limestone DSB Secondary Assessment and Evaluation: Family Guide. The guide explains how final grades are calculated, including classroom learning, mandatory final evaluations, and attendance and participation. It also outlines the different types of final evaluations students may complete based on their courses.
We encourage families to review the guide and discuss it with their student. We will continue to provide updates as we receive further information from the Ontario Ministry of Education.
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting student success.
Talya McKenna
Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services, Secondary Program and Student Success
Limestone District School Board