High School FAQ

With report cards coming home soon, we have to start considering what classes students will be taking for Grade 9.  Course selection sheets will be coming home after the report cards go home, and we will be asking for them to be returned by the end of February (exact date to be determined).

BDHS Grade 8 Page

I've added this page to answer some commonly asked questions with regards to high school and course selection.

What courses must students take in Grade 9?

Compulsory subjects are:
English
Math
Science

Geography
French

Phys. Ed.

How do we select elective subjects?

In Grade 9, students will be able to take 2 elective subjects (open courses that are available to all students).  These should be classes that appeal to student interests.
By the end of Grade 12, students must take at least one Arts class, so an Arts class (Drama, Dance, Visual Arts, Music) in Grade 9 is recommended. 

Students should consider 4 elective subjects that they would be interested in, because they cannot necessarily be guaranteed their first 2 choices.  BDHS rarely has to go to 3rd and 4th choices, but it does happen if a class is particularly popular.

More information about High School course completion:  What Do You Need to Graduate?

What is the difference between Academic, Applied, and Locally Developed classes?
Typically, Locally Developed classes are reserved for students who have received Learning Center-based instruction during their elementary school years. Once students finish high school, they will be ready to enter the work force.
Applied classes are for students who are interested in going directly into the work force, apprenticeships, or to college level post-secondary education. Generally, students who achieve up to the mid-70s would be best-suited for Applied classes.

Students achieving at or above the provincial standard (75% and higher) would likely see success in Academic classes. These classes prepare students to go into the work force, apprenticeships, college or university-level post-secondary education. 

What if my child does really well in Math, but struggles in Language?
If a student excels in one area and not another, it's fine for them to select courses in different streams.  It is important to consider the end-goal (where does your child see him/herself in 4 years?), and make decisions with that goal in mind. If you are unsure, please contact your child's teacher to discuss the best placement for him/her.

I heard that students have to have volunteer hours in order to graduate. Is this true?
Yes.  Students are required to have 40 volunteer hours logged before they get their diploma at the end of Grade 12.  Volunteer hours can be any time spent assisting in non-profit organizations (e.g., Retirement/Nursing Homes, Food Bank, Hospital, Kiwanis, Lion's Club, Animal Shelters, Elementary Schools).  It is important to note that students cannot claim volunteer hours if they receive compensation of any kind, or if they are "helping out" with a family or local business.

I would still like to sit down and talk to my child's teacher regarding course selection - can I do this?

Of course!  Please contact us here at the school if you would like any further information about course selection and high school transition in general.