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Secondary Parents/Caregivers and Secondary Students,
In order to plan ahead for students to switch between in-person and virtual learning for Semester Two beginning February 3, 2022, families and students requesting a change must complete a Switch Form between November 29 and December 6. A form must be completed for each student requesting a switch. Families and students who do not wish to make a change do not need to complete a form.
While we cannot guarantee that all requests for a switch can be met, it is our goal to accommodate as many as possible based on available programs and space (e.g., French Immersion, Extended French, Specialized Programs, Alternative Schools, other limited circumstances).
According to TDSB survey results, we know that the majority of students prefer In-Person Learning because that is where they learn best. Most families selected In-Person Learning for the 2021-22 school year.
We look forward to welcoming students back in-person as much as possible as we return to a regular semester 2. We are encouraged that vaccinations in this age group continue to increase; and overall the rate is high.
Student engagement is enhanced when students see one another as they interact with their teacher and peers. Students learning virtually in Semester 2 are expected to have their cameras on during class time. Zoom Backgrounds are available to students for privacy. By having cameras on, we will build human connection with one another which supports learning and a strong sense of community. Students can speak with a guidance counsellor, Vice-Principal or Principal if there are concerns.
If a student does not have a device with a camera and mic, please indicate that a device is needed on the Switch Form. If a student is already learning virtually and does not have a device with a camera and mic, they can speak with their Principal or Vice-Principal to request an appropriate device.
For Semester 2, to minimize the use of simultaneous learning, schools will be allowed to:
- Reduce optional course offerings at grade 9 and 10 where most of the program consists of compulsory courses (e.g. All Grade 9 students would take Art as their optional course rather than choose between Visual Arts, Drama, or Music.)
- Offer courses virtually in specialized programming (e.g. TOPS, MAST, IB, AP, Extended French and French Immersion, etc.) where a viable cohort of virtual learners in the school exists
- Form "hubs" with other schools, where possible. Virtual Learning students may be taught by a teacher from another TDSB secondary school as students are shared across schools in a simultaneous and/or fully virtual class.
- Offer courses that are primarily experiential/"hands on" only in-person, which includes many Technology and Physical & Health Education courses. Please check with your local school for the list of In-Person courses.
Courses Offered In-Person:
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Sculpture
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Physical Education (not including Kinesiology, Personal Fitness, and Leadership)
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Construction Engineering
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Fashion
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Electrical / Network Cabling
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Architectural Design
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Hospitality and Tourism
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Robotics and Control Systems
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Baking
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Baking
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Computer Engineering Technology
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Green Industries
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Manufacturing Technology
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Transportation Technology
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Custom Woodworking
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Hairstyling and Aesthetics
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We recognize that we are asking for this decision well in advance of February and thank you for your understanding, as this process takes time to complete. Please speak with your Vice-Principal or Principal if you have any questions.
All changes due to switches will take effect beginning Semester Two, on February 3, 2022.