De-Streaming Virtual Information Night
De-streaming is an approach to learning that intends to “better support students in having every opportunity to pursue the pathway of their choice after their K-12 education” (Ontario Ministry of Education).
Families who were unable to attend the December 8 virtual information session can watch the video recording below:
This session explains what de-streaming is, detail what’s new and what has changed in the current curriculum, show how a de-streamed math course provides entry points for all students, and explore how teaching and learning is approached in a de-streamed classroom so that all students reach their full potential.
Additional Links and Resources
- History of Streaming https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49JIyA1gToY
- Grade 9 Mathematics Course Overview https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/curriculum/secondary-mathematics
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are grade 9 courses being de-streamed?
Prior to September 2021, Ontario was the only Canadian province that divided students into academic and applied type courses when they entered high school. Evidence shows that this division limits student participation in post-secondary learning and disadvantages many students, especially those who are racialized and who have lower incomes. De-streaming is part of Ontario’s Education Equity Action Plan.
After completing grade 9, will students be prepared for grade 10, 11, and 12 high school courses?
The Grade 9 Program will prepare students for all grade 10 courses.
My child has an IEP. How will my child’s needs be met in a de-streamed class?
The Individual Education Plan (IEP) outlines the individualized strategies and accommodations that are required by the student. In partnership with the learning resource teacher, the classroom teacher will ensure that all accommodations required by your child will be provided in the classroom. By using strategies like Differentiated Instruction and Universal Design for Learning the teacher can offer the student a learning experience that responds to his or her individual needs.
My child is identified as gifted. What opportunities for enrichment will be available in Grade 9?
When teachers use strategies like Differentiated Instruction and Universal Design for Learning they provide learning opportunities that respond to each individual student’s academic needs and interests. By using these strategies, teachers give all students access to rigorous, personalized enrichment projects that meet individual needs. Grade 9 courses will continue to hold high expectations for learning, offer opportunities to extend thinking, and develop students’ critical thinking.
I have heard a lot about the new math course. What does it mean for my child?
The Ministry of Education now offers the new de-streamed math course, MTH1W. This course enables students to consolidate, and continue to develop, an understanding of mathematical concepts related to number sense and operations, algebra, measurement, geometry, data, probability, and financial literacy. Students will use mathematical processes, mathematical modelling, and coding to make sense of the mathematics they are learning and to apply their understanding to culturally responsive and relevant real-world situations.
This allows all pathways to be available to your child in grade 10.
I am concerned that my child may not be prepared for the grade 9 program. What support will be available to them in grade 9?
Teachers will support each student in their subject courses. The first point of contact for student support is the subject teacher. In addition, every secondary school has a Student Success Teacher. Also, every student is connected with a Guidance Counselor. There is a team approach to helping students achieve in each of their grade 9 courses.
As well, students are invited to attend free summer programming offered by HWDSB. Please consult the Summer Program Flyer that will be available in Spring 2022. Information will be available on HWDSB’s website at Summer | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (hwdsb.on.ca).
I have questions about HWDSB Programs. Where can I get more information?
You can learn more about the different high school options in this section, Programs | Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (hwdsb.on.ca) such as: · List of Programs · eLearning · English as a Second Language (ESL) · French Immersion · Self-directed Self-paced · Night School · Summer School
My child is in French Immersion, is there any differences regarding this information?
No, other than the language of instruction, French Immersion students participate in the same curriculum.
I missed the November 16, 2021 presentation about High School in the HWDSB. Where can I go for more information?
The November 16 presentation recording can be found here.
I would like to learn more about high schools in the Hamilton Wentworth District School Board. How can I learn more?
Each high school has a website that you can go to for more information. In addition, high schools will be holding information nights in January, 2022. Please go to the board’s website to find details about each high school’s presentation: School Presentation Dates: Board Website Page
Updated on Monday, December 13, 2021.