"Fairness is not Sameness "
Transitions are difficult for all of us. Sometimes the stress of transitioning to high school can cause a dip in academic achievement and a spike in social anxiety.
At RND, we communicate with the student's grade 8 teachers to connect our incoming students with the appropriate supports.
Our ministry transitions guidelines document includes a tab for parent to access information about a variety of services available to parent/guardians. It has information from the ministry about new programs available and tips and tricks to help your child transition more successfully. Learn about how to get involved with your child's transition, including applying for grants.
Choosing Courses For Grade 9
It is important that students choose grade 9 courses that reflect their strengths, interests and learning styles. Below is a description of the 3 pathways through high school. It is important to make the appropriate choices to better position a student for success!
Partner Schools
RND Special Education Department aims to facilitate the process of transitioning into high school through strong communication.
In May, our team visits partner schools to case conference about each child's academic performance and there, we determine the level will result in the greatest success for the student.
Upon receiving and reviewing the students IEP, a form is sent home asking for specific information and input from the caregiver and the student to update the IEP for the upcoming year. We ask for recommendations and suggestions about various aspects of the student, both personal and academic from the parent/guardian perspective.
Non Partner Schools
Information is vital to us if we are to develop an appropriate timetable for all new students for next year. The sooner that we receive information, the more likely we can program appropriately for your student. We make every effort to communicate with teachers from non-partner schools. Please contact our special education department if your child has an IEP.
A-Head Start is a transition /orientation program for grade 9 students that normally runs during the final week of August. Students will strengthen their literacy and numeracy skills and participate in fun school spirit building activities. It gives our new students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the physical layout of the school, meet current teachers and make new peer connections. Students will get their textbooks, lock and locker, RND t-shirt, and Kingston Transit resources. The week is full of fun activities to keep our new panthers excited and ready for high school.
MyBlueprint is an online tool used in many Grade 8 schools to explore personal interests and strengths with a focus on career path. All RND students have access to a myBlueprint account. Using the online educational planning tool, students begin the process of exploring education and career choices throughout high school, and in grade 10 Careers course. Course selections also take place using this online tool.
