Much of the planning for the new school year is underway!
One of the most important tasks that usually begins in late May is the placement of students into new classes for September, 2017-2018. Homeroom teachers in consultation with receiving teachers, appropriate support staff and school administration devote much discussion time to the generation of classes that strive to best meet the needs of all of our students. Class placement is a complex process that takes many hours of thought and discussion. Decisions are made following careful consideration of a number of criteria:
- Balance of student abilities,
- Ministry and Board Guidelines (e.g. class size)
- Gender balance,
- Academic performance
- Learning skills
- Individual needs
- social/emotional factors
- ELL and Special Education needs
While friendship issues can play a role in the comfort level of some students, at particular developmental stages, many friends learn best in separate classes.
Often parents have new and/or important information to share about their child which lends assistance to class placement decisions. Recent medical diagnoses, significant negative peer relationships that exist outside the school’s awareness or significant individual/family issues that may impact learning and learning style are items of information which are appreciated prior to the placement process. Parent input that is received via a letter to the Principal by Friday, MAY 12th, 2017 will be considered (and shared) during placement meetings.
Please note that we do not accept specific teacher requests.
Input after May 12th may not be considered due to the complexity of the task. Please be advised that while such input is valued, it cannot drive class placement decisions since school-wide limitations and a variety of other factors will, at times, take precedence.
Final decisions regarding student placements remain the responsibility of the Principal. Ministry mandates on class size will impact class placements into September. Please note that we are unable to share class placement information with families until the first day of the new school year. Thank you in advance for your support and for partnering with us in this very important task.
