Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, the Ontario Ministry of Education is introducing updated requirements for assessment, evaluation, attendance, and graduation across all secondary schools under the Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026 and revised Growing Success policies.
At the Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board, we remain committed to a holistic, student-centered approach to learning, recognizing regular attendance as a vital predictor of achievement and well-being. Regular attendance and active classroom participation are fundamental to academic success, positive habit formation, and future career readiness. Below is an overview of these provincial updates and board support.
1. Mandatory Attendance and Participation Requirements
Under provincial policy, student attendance and active participation are mandatory components of the final secondary course mark:
- Grades 9 and 10: 15% of the final course mark is based on attendance and participation.
- Grades 11 and 12: 10% of the final course mark is based on attendance and participation.
2. Board Approach to Attendance
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences
Excused Absences: Formally reported in writing meeting provincial criteria do not negatively impact grades.
Unexcused Absences: Absences such as truancy or unverified absences disrupt learning and negatively affect the attendance/participation grade.
Reporting Absences in Writing
Absences must be reported in writing by a parent or guardian via one of the following methods:
- Submitting a signed, handwritten note upon the student's return.
- Submitting the board's online attendance form:
- Sending an email directly to the school's attendance office:
3. Calculation of Final Marks and Mandatory Evaluations
Course marks in Grades 9 through 12 are structured around consistent provincial standards:
Grades 9 and 10:
Grades 11 and 12:
All written final examinations take place during the board’s designated secondary exam period.
4. New Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement
Students entering Grade 9 in 2025–2026 or later must complete a financial literacy module within Grade 10 Career Studies, scoring at least 70% (forming 5% of the course mark) to graduate. Re-evaluation opportunities are provided.
Questions or Guidance?
If you have questions regarding absence reporting, course evaluations, or student support services, please contact your school’s main office or guidance department.
Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, the Ontario Ministry of Education is introducing updated requirements for assessment, evaluation, attendance, and graduation across all secondary schools under the Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026 and revised Growing Success policies.
At the Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board, we remain committed to a holistic, student-centered approach to learning, recognizing regular attendance as a vital predictor of achievement and well-being. Regular attendance and active classroom participation are fundamental to academic success, positive habit formation, and future career readiness. Below is an overview of these provincial updates and board support.
1. Mandatory Attendance and Participation Requirements
Under provincial policy, student attendance and active participation are mandatory components of the final secondary course mark:
- Grades 9 and 10: 15% of the final course mark is based on attendance and participation.
- Grades 11 and 12: 10% of the final course mark is based on attendance and participation.
2. Board Approach to Attendance
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences
Excused Absences: Formally reported in writing meeting provincial criteria do not negatively impact grades.
Unexcused Absences: Absences such as truancy or unverified absences disrupt learning and negatively affect the attendance/participation grade.
Reporting Absences in Writing
Absences must be reported in writing by a parent or guardian via one of the following methods:
- Submitting a signed, handwritten note upon the student's return.
- Submitting the board's online attendance form:
- Sending an email directly to the school's attendance office:
3. Calculation of Final Marks and Mandatory Evaluations
Course marks in Grades 9 through 12 are structured around consistent provincial standards:
Grades 9 and 10:
Grades 11 and 12:
All written final examinations take place during the board’s designated secondary exam period.
4. New Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement
Students entering Grade 9 in 2025–2026 or later must complete a financial literacy module within Grade 10 Career Studies, scoring at least 70% (forming 5% of the course mark) to graduate. Re-evaluation opportunities are provided.
Questions or Guidance?
If you have questions regarding absence reporting, course evaluations, or student support services, please contact your school’s main office or guidance department.