A family checklist to start learning more about high school in Grades 6 and 7
This checklist can help families start conversations and learn more about high school before making any decisions.
You may also find these other resources helpful:
Start the conversation
Talk with your child about:
☐ Subjects and activities they like or are curious about.
☐ What helps them learn best.
☐ What they hope their high school experience will be like.
☐ Questions they may have about high school.
Explore high school
☐ Use the School Locator on the board website to find your home school (the school in your neighbourhood).
☐ Visit the high school open house - tour the school, meet staff and learn about courses, programs and student support.
☐ Attend events at the high school that are open to elementary families (e.g. plays).
Learn more about supports and opportunities
☐ Explore the school board and school websites to learn more about what to expect in high school, and course and program options.
☐ If your child is interested in a specialized program, check program requirements. Not sure what interests you? You can search programs by area of interest or try this short quiz.
☐ Learn about My Pathway Planner (myBlueprint), which students use from Grades 7-12 to explore interests and plan.
☐ Reassure your child that there will be lots of support to help students transition to high school and be successful
Five Questions to Ask Your Child in Grade 6 or 7
- What programs and courses interest you?
- What support might you need to be successful?
- How do you feel about the school environment?
- What extracurriculars, clubs or activities are available that interest you?
- What questions do you have about starting high school?
